BACKGROUND
[0001] Biopsy samples have been obtained in a variety of ways in various medical procedures
including open and percutaneous methods using a variety of devices. Biopsy devices
may be used under stereotactic guidance, ultrasound guidance, MRI guidance, PEM guidance,
BSGI guidance, or otherwise.
[0002] Biopsy samples have been obtained in a variety of ways in various medical procedures
using a variety of devices. Biopsy devices may be used under stereotactic guidance,
ultrasound guidance, MRI guidance, PEM guidance, BSGI guidance, or otherwise. For
instance, some biopsy devices may be fully operable by a user using a single hand,
and with a single insertion, to capture one or more biopsy samples from a patient.
In addition, some biopsy devices may be tethered to a vacuum module and/or control
module, such as for communication of fluids (e.g., pressurized air, saline, atmospheric
air, vacuum, etc.), for communication of power, and/or for communication of commands
and the like. Other biopsy devices may be fully or at least partially operable without
being tethered or otherwise connected with another device.
[0003] Merely exemplary biopsy devices and biopsy system components are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,822, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Automated Biopsy and Collection of Soft Tissue,"
issued June 18, 1996;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,164, entitled "Apparatus for Automated Biopsy and Collection of Soft Tissue," issued
July 27, 1999;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,017,316, entitled "Vacuum Control System and Method for Automated Biopsy Device," issued
January 25, 2000;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,544, entitled "Control Apparatus for an Automated Surgical Biopsy Device," issued July
11, 2000;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,162,187, entitled "Fluid Collection Apparatus for a Surgical Device," issued December 19,
2000;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,065, entitled "Method for Using a Surgical Biopsy System with Remote Control for Selecting
an Operational Mode," issued August 13, 2002;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,626,849, entitled "MRI Compatible Surgical Biopsy Device," issued September 11, 2003;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,768, entitled "Surgical Biopsy System with Remote Control for Selecting an Operational
Mode," issued June 22, 2004;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,442,171, entitled "Remote Thumbwheel for a Surgical Biopsy Device," issued October 8, 2008;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,648,466, entitled "Manually Rotatable Piercer," issued January 19, 2010;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,837,632, entitled "Biopsy Device Tissue Port Adjustment," issued November 23, 2010;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,706, entitled "Clutch and Valving System for Tetherless Biopsy Device," issued December
1, 2010;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,914,464, entitled "Surgical Biopsy System with Remote Control for Selecting an Operational
Mode," issued March 29, 2011;
U.S. Pat. No. 7,938,786, entitled "Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device," issued May 10, 2011;
U.S. Pat. No. 8,083,687, entitled "Tissue Biopsy Device with Rotatably Linked Thumbwheel and Tissue Sample
Holder," issued December 21, 2011; and
U.S. Pat. No. 8,118,755, entitled "Biopsy Sample Storage," issued February 21, 2012.
[0004] Additional exemplary biopsy devices and biopsy system components are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2006/0074345, entitled "Biopsy Apparatus and Method," published April 6, 2006;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0146962, entitled "Biopsy System with Vacuum Control Module," published June 19, 2008;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0214955, entitled "Presentation of Biopsy Sample by Biopsy Device," published September 4,
2008;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0221480, entitled "Biopsy Sample Storage," published September 11, 2008,
issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,118,755 on February 21, 2012;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2009/0131821, entitled "Graphical User Interface For Biopsy System Control Module," published
May 21, 2009;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2009/0131820, entitled "Icon-Based User Interface on Biopsy System Control Module," published
May 21, 2009, issued as
U.S. Pat. No. 8,454,531 on June 4, 2013;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0113973, entitled "Biopsy Device with Rotatable Tissue Sample Holder," published May 6, 2010,
issued as
U.S. Pat. No. 8,241,226 on August 14, 2012;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0152610, entitled "Hand Actuated Tetherless Biopsy Device with Pistol Grip," published June
17, 2010;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0160819, entitled "Biopsy Device with Central Thumbwheel," published June 24, 2010;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0160824, entitled "Biopsy Device with Discrete Tissue Chambers," published June 24, 2010,
issued as
U.S. Pat. No. 8,702,623 on April 22, 2014;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2010/0317997, entitled "Tetherless Biopsy Device with Reusable Portion," published December 16,
2010, issued as
U.S. Pat. No. 8,206,316 on June 26, 2012;
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2012/0109007, entitled "Handheld Biopsy Device with Needle Firing," published May 3, 2012;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/086,567, entitled "Biopsy Device with Motorized Needle Firing," filed April 14, 2011, published
as
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2012/0265095 on October 18, 2012;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/150,950, entitled "Needle Assembly and Blade Assembly for Biopsy Device," filed June 1, 2011,
published as
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2012/0310110 on December 6, 2012;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/205,189, entitled "Access Chamber and Markers for Biopsy Device," filed August 8, 2011, published
as
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2013/0041256 on February 14, 2013;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/218,656, entitled "Biopsy Device Tissue Sample Holder with Bulk Chamber and Pathology Chamber,"
filed August 26, 2011, published as
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2013/0053724 on February 28, 2013;
U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 61/566,793, entitled "Biopsy Device With Slide-In Probe," filed December 5, 2011 published as
US 2013-0324882 A1 on 12-05-2013 ; and
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/483,235, entitled "Control for Biopsy Device," filed May 30, 2012, published as
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2013/0324882 on December 5, 2013.
[0005] In
U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2005/0283069, entitled "MRI Biopsy Device Localization Fixture" published December 22, 2005, a
localization mechanism, or fixture, is described that is used in conjunction with
a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during
prone biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines.
The localization fixture includes a three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide
for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument, and, in particular,
a cannula/sleeve to a biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions. Another merely
illustrative localization mechanism used for guiding a core biopsy instrument is disclosed
in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,507,210, entitled "Biopsy Cannula Adjustable Depth Stop," issued March 24, 2009. The localization
mechanism includes a grid plate configured to removably receive a guide cube capable
of supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument. For instance, a combination
of an obturator and targeting cannula/sleeve may be introduced through a breast to
a biopsy site via the guide cube, with proper positioning confirmed using MRI imaging.
The obturator may then be removed and the needle of a biopsy device may then be inserted
through the targeting cannula/sleeve to reach the targeted lesion.
[0006] A Z-stop may enhance accurate insertion, and prevent over-insertion or inadvertent
retraction of a biopsy device targeting cannula/sleeve and obturator. In particular,
a Z-stop may engage the localization fixture or cube at a distance from the patient
set to restrict the depth of insertion of a biopsy device needle into a patient. Merely
illustrative z-stop examples are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,507,210, entitled "Biopsy Cannula Adjustable Depth Stop," issued March 24, 2009.
[0007] US 2011/0092850 A1 discloses a biopsy system comprising a control module, a localization assembly, a
biopsy device, and a targeting device. A probe is configured to selectively couple
with the targeting device, which is configured to selectively couple with a grid plate.
The targeting device comprises a rotational lock for securing the targeting device
within the grid plate. The targeting device further comprises an elastomeric insert
positioned within guide holes of the targeting device for securing the probe within
the guide hole of the targeting device. The guide holes of the targeting device comprises
one or more retaining rings positioned within guide holes of the targeting device
for securing the probe within the guide hole of the targeting device.
[0008] US 2007/255170 A1 discloses biopsy system with a grid plate used as either a lateral or medial compression
plate of a localization fixture used with a breast coil includes a rotatable guide
cube that may be inserted into a desired rectangular recess in the grid plate after
rotating to position a selected guide hole in the desired spatial orientation. Versions
of a guide cube include those rotatable in two axes to provide additional hole positions,
angled holes, enlarged circular holes that function with a rotating guide to support
a non-circular biopsy instrument cannula (e.g., trocar/sleeve combination, core biopsy
probe of a biopsy device) for rotation. A rotating guide may have an unlocked state
for easily sliding to a selected longitudinal position thereon. Thereafter, the rotating
guide is locked to serve as a positive depth stop (e.g., quarter turn locking elastomeric
rings, triangular and scissor clips, and shutter depth stops).
[0009] US 2010/0160823 A1 discloses a biopsy probe with a locking tab that engages with a thumbwheel to prevent
movement of the thumbwheel relative to a needle.
[0010] US 4 841 985 A describes a blood sample device for drawing blood from a patient, wherein the device
includes a locking mechanism which holds a biased needle assembly in a needle holder
during use. Upon release of the locking mechanism, the bias on the needle assembly
ejects the same from the holder.
[0011] While several systems and methods have been made and used for obtaining a biopsy
sample, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor has made or used the invention
described in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The invention is defined in independent claim 1, according to which an apparatus
for guiding a biospy instrument into tissue of a patient is provided. While the specification
concludes with claims, it is believed the present invention will be better understood
from the following description of certain examples and illustrative embodiments taken
in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify
the same elements. In the drawings some components or portions of components are shown
in phantom as depicted by broken lines.
FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a biopsy system including a control module remotely
coupled to a biopsy device, and including a localization fixture with a lateral grid
plate used in conjunction with a rotatable cube to position an obturator or a probe
of the biopsy device to a desired insertion depth as set by a ring stop;
FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of a breast coil receiving the localization fixture
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the biopsy device inserted through the rotatable
cube within the cube plate of the localization fixture attached to the breast coil
of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a two-axis rotatable guide cube of the biopsy
system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 depicts a diagram of nine guide positions achievable by the two-axis rotatable
guide cube of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of a two-axis rotatable guide cube into a lateral
grid with the backing of the localization fixture of FIG. 1;
FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a obturator and cannula of the biopsy system
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 8 depicts a perspective exploded view of the obturator and cannula of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the obturator and cannula of FIG. 7 with a depth
stop device of FIG. 1 inserted through the guide cube and grid plate of FIG. 6;
FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary alternative biopsy device that
may be used with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative biopsy device
that may be used with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 12 depicts a partial side elevational view of an exemplary alternative cannula
with an obturator disposed therein, that may be used with the biopsy system of FIG.
1;
FIG. 13 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 depicts a partial side elevational view of another exemplary alternative cannula
with an angled open end and an obturator disposed therein, that may be used with the
biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 15 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 depicts a partial side elevational view of yet another exemplary alternative
cannula with a lateral opening having an angled distal portion and an obturator disposed
therein, that may be used with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 17 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 16;
FIG. 18 depicts a partial side elevational view of yet another exemplary alternative
cannula with an angled open end and an obturator disposed therein, that may be used
with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 19 depicts a partial perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative cannula
with an open end and a pair of longitudinal openings, that may be used with the biopsy
system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 20 depicts a front elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 19;
FIG. 21 depicts a partial side elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 19 with an
obturator inserted therein;
FIG. 22 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 21;
FIG. 23 depicts a partial perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative cannula
with an open end and a pair of longitudinal recesses, that may be used with the biopsy
system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 24 depicts a front elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 23;
FIG. 25 depicts a partial side elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 23 with an
obturator inserted therein;
FIG. 26 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 25;
FIG. 27 depicts a partial side elevational view of yet another exemplary alternative
cannula that may be used with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 28 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula of FIG. 27;
FIG. 29 depicts a partial side elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 27 with an
obturator inserted therein;
FIG. 30 depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 29;
FIG. 31A depicts a partial side elevational view of yet another exemplary alternative
cannula with an exemplary alternative obturator having a pair of adjustable blades
in an extended position;
FIG. 31B depicts a partial side elevational view of the cannula and obturator of FIG.
31A with the pair of adjustable blades in a retracted position;
FIG. 32A depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 31A
with the pair of adjustable blades in the extended position;
FIG. 32B depicts a partial perspective view of the cannula and obturator of FIG. 31A
with the pair of adjustable blades in the retracted position;
FIG. 33 depicts a partial exploded perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative
cannula with an integral tissue piercing tip that may be used with the biopsy system
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 34 depicts a partial side elevational view of the cannula of FIG. 33 with an
obturator inserted therein;
FIG. 35 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative cannula with an
integral tissue piercing tip that may be used with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 36 depicts a cross-sectional view of the cannula of FIG. 35 taken along line
36-36 of FIG. 35;
FIG. 37 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary alternative guide cube suitable
for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 38 depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 37;
FIG. 39 depicts a perspective view of the cannula of FIG. 35 inserted through a guide
hole of the guide cube of FIG. 37;
FIG. 40 depicts a perspective view of the cannula of FIG. 35 inserted through the
guide cube of FIG. 37, with the guide cube disposed in the grid plate of FIG. 6;
FIG. 41 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative guide cube suitable
for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 42 depicts another perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 41;
FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 41 taken along line
43-43 of FIG. 41;
FIG. 44 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 41 taken along line
44-44 of FIG. 41;
FIG. 45 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 41 taken along line
45-45 of FIG. 42;
FIG. 46 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube
suitable for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 47 depicts another perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 46;
FIG. 48 depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 46;
FIG. 49 depicts a side elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 46;
FIG. 50 depicts a back elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 46;
FIG. 51 depicts a top view of the guide cube of FIG. 46;
FIG. 52 depicts a front view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube suitable
for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 53 depicts a front view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube suitable
for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 54 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube
suitable for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 55 depicts another perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 54;
FIG. 56 depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 54;
FIG. 57 depicts a side elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 54;
FIG. 58 depicts a back elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 54;
FIG. 59 depicts a top view of the guide cube of FIG. 54;
FIG. 60 depicts a front view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube suitable
for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 61 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube
suitable for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 62 depicts another perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 61;
FIG. 63A depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 61 with a locking
feature in a first rotational position;
FIG. 63B depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 61 with the locking
feature of FIG. 63A moved into a second rotational position;
FIG. 64 depicts a side elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 61;
FIG. 65 depicts a back elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 61;
FIG. 66 depicts a top view of the guide cube of FIG. 61;
FIG. 67A depicts a perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 61 with the locking
feature of FIG. 63A in the first rotational position of FIG. 63A, and with a cannula
in a first longitudinal position;
FIG. 67B depicts a perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 61 with the locking
feature of FIG. 63A remaining in the first rotational position of FIG. 63A, and with
the cannula of FIG. 67A moved into a second longitudinal position;
FIG. 67C depicts a perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 61 with the locking
feature of FIG. 63A moved into the second rotational position of FIG. 63B, and with
the cannula of FIG. 67A remaining in the second longitudinal position;
FIG. 68 depicts a cross-sectional view of the cannula of FIG. 67A in the second longitudinal
position, and with the locking feature of FIG. 63A in the second rotational position
of FIG. 63B;
FIG. 69 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary alternative guide cube
suitable for use with the biopsy system of FIG. 1;
FIG. 70 depicts a front elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 69;
FIG. 71 depicts a side elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 69;
FIG. 72 depicts a back elevational view of the guide cube of FIG. 69;
FIG. 73 depicts a top view of the guide cube of FIG. 69;
FIG. 74 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken along line
74-74 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 75 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken
along line 74-74 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 76 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken along line
76-76 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 77 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken
along line 76-76 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 78 depicts a cross-sectional view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken along line
78-78 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 79 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of the guide cube of FIG. 69 taken
along line 78-78 of FIG. 69;
FIG. 80 depicts a perspective view of a biopsy system including a control module remotely
coupled to a biopsy device, and including a localization fixture with a lateral fence
and pedestal operable to position an obturator or a probe of the biopsy device to
a desired insertion depth;
FIG. 81 depicts a perspective view of the lateral fence and pedestal of the localization
fixture of the biopsy system of FIG. 80;
FIG. 82 depicts a perspective view of a guidance member that may be mounted onto the
localization fixture of the biopsy system of FIG. 80;
FIG. 83 depicts a perspective view of a breast coil receiving the localization fixture
of FIG. 80;
FIG. 84 depicts a perspective view of a biopsy device inserted through a locking device
of the localization fixture attached to the breast coil of FIG. 83;
FIG. 85 depicts a perspective view of a locking device suitable for use with the biopsy
system of FIG. 80;
FIG. 86 depicts another perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 85;
FIG. 87A depicts a front elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 85 with a
locking feature in a first rotational position;
FIG. 87B depicts a front elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 85 with the
locking feature of FIG. 87A moved into a second rotational position;
FIG. 88 depicts a side elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 85;
FIG. 89 depicts a back elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 85;
FIG. 90 depicts another side elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 85;
FIG. 91A depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 85 with the locking
feature of FIG. 87A in the first rotational position of FIG. 87A, and with a cannula
in a first longitudinal position;
FIG. 91B depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 85 with the locking
feature of FIG. 87A remaining in the first rotational position of FIG. 87A, and with
the cannula of FIG. 91A moved into a second longitudinal position;
FIG. 91C depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 85 with the locking
feature of FIG. 87A moved into the second rotational position of FIG. 87B, and with
the cannula of FIG. 91A remaining in the second longitudinal position;
FIG. 92A depicts a cross-sectional view of a tensioning feature of the locking device
of FIG. 85 in a first rotational position;
FIG. 92B depicts a cross-sectional view of the tensioning feature of FIG. 92A moved
into a second rotational position;
FIG. 93 depicts a perspective view of another locking device suitable for use with
the biopsy system of FIG. 80;
FIG. 94 depicts another perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93;
FIG. 95 depicts a detailed perspective view of a translatable member, a stabilizing
member, and a locking feature of the locking device of FIG. 93;
FIG. 96 depicts a perspective view of the stabilizing member of FIG. 95;
FIG. 97A depicts a front elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the
stabilizing member of FIG. 95 in a first rotational position, and with the locking
feature of FIG. 95 also in a first rotational position;
FIG. 97B depicts a front elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the
stabilizing member of FIG. 95 moved into a second rotational position, and with the
locking feature of FIG. 95 also moved into a second rotational position;
FIG. 98 depicts a side elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 93;
FIG. 99 depicts a back elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 93;
FIG. 100 depicts another side elevational view of the locking device of FIG. 93;
FIG. 101A depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the stabilizing
member of FIG. 95 in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with the locking feature
of FIG. 95 in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with the translatable member
of FIG. 95 in a first longitudinal position, and with a cannula in a first longitudinal
position;
FIG. 101B depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the stabilizing
member of FIG. 95 remaining in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with the
locking feature of FIG. 95 remaining in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A,
with the translatable member of FIG. 95 remaining in the first longitudinal position
of FIG. 101A, and with the cannula of FIG. 101A moved into a second longitudinal position;
FIG. 101C depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the stabilizing
member of FIG. 95 moved into the second rotational position of FIG. 97B, with the
locking feature of FIG. 95 moved into the second rotational position of FIG. 97B,
and with the translatable member of FIG. 95 moved into a second longitudinal position,
all by movement of the cannula of FIG. 101 into a third longitudinal position;
FIG. 102A depicts a detailed perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with
the stabilizing member of FIG. 95 in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with
the locking feature of FIG. 95 in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with
the translatable member of FIG. 95 in the first longitudinal position of FIG. 101A,
and with the cannula of FIG. 101A in the second longitudinal position of FIG. 101B;
FIG. 102B depicts a detailed perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with
the stabilizing member of FIG. 95 moved into the second rotational position of FIG.
97B, with the locking feature of FIG. 95 moved into the second rotational position
of FIG. 97B, and with the translatable member of FIG. 95 moved into the second longitudinal
position of FIG. 101C, all by movement of the cannula of FIG. 101 into the third longitudinal
position of FIG. 101C;
FIG. 103A depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the stabilizing
member of FIG. 95 in the second rotational position of FIG. 97B, with the locking
feature of FIG. 95 in the second rotational position of FIG. 97B, with the translatable
member of FIG. 95 moved in the second longitudinal position of FIG. 101C, and with
the cannula of FIG. 101 in the third longitudinal position of FIG. 101C;
FIG. 103B depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the locking
feature of FIG. 95 moved back into the first rotational position of FIG. 97A by movement
of the translatable member of FIG. 95 back into the first longitudinal position of
FIG. 101A, with the stabilizing member of FIG. 95 remaining in the second rotational
position of FIG. 97B, and with the cannula of FIG. 101 remaining in the third longitudinal
position of FIG. 101C; and
FIG. 103C depicts a perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 93 with the locking
feature of FIG. 95 remaining in the first rotational position of FIG. 97A, with the
translatable member of FIG. 95 back remaining in the first longitudinal position of
FIG. 101A, and with the stabilizing member of FIG. 95 moved back into the first rotational
position of FIG. 97A by movement of the cannula of FIG. 101 back into the first longitudinal
position of FIG. 101A.
[0013] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that
various embodiments of the disclosure may be carried out in a variety of other ways,
including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings
incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects
of the present disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain the
principles of the disclosure; it being understood, however, that this disclosure is
not limited to the precise arrangements shown.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] In the following, a description of certain examples of the disclosure is provided.
Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the disclosure will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description. Accordingly,
the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not
restrictive.
I. Overview of Exemplary MRI Biopsy Control Module
[0015] In FIGS. 1-3, MRI compatible biopsy system (10) has control module (12) that may
be placed outside of a shielded room containing an MRI machine (not shown) or at least
spaced away to mitigate detrimental interaction with its strong magnetic field and/or
sensitive radio frequency (RF) signal detection antennas. As described in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,768, a range of preprogrammed functionality may be incorporated into control module (12)
to assist in taking tissue samples. Control module (12) controls and powers biopsy
device (14) that is used with localization assembly (15). Biopsy device (14) is positioned
and guided by localization fixture (16) attached to breast coil (18) that may be placed
upon a gantry (not shown) of a MRI or other imaging machine.
[0016] In the present example, control module (12) is mechanically, electrically, and pneumatically
coupled to biopsy device (14) so that components may be segregated that need to be
spaced away from the strong magnetic field and the sensitive RF receiving components
of a MRI machine. Cable management spool (20) is placed upon cable management attachment
saddle (22) that projects from a side of control module (12). Wound upon cable management
spool (20) is paired electrical cable (24) and mechanical cable (26) for communicating
control signals and cutter rotation/advancement motions respectively. In particular,
electrical and mechanical cables (24, 26) each have one end connected to respective
electrical and mechanical ports (28, 30) in control module (12) and another end connected
to holster portion (32) of biopsy device (14). Docking cup (34), which may hold holster
portion (32) when not in use, is hooked to control module (12) by docking station
mounting bracket (36). It should be understood that such components described above
as being associated with control module (12) are merely optional.
[0017] Interface lock box (38) mounted to a wall provides tether (40) to lockout port (42)
on control module (12). Tether (40) is uniquely terminated and of short length to
preclude inadvertent positioning of control module (12) too close to a MRI machine
or other machine. In-line enclosure (44) may register tether (40), electrical cable
(24) and mechanical cable (26) to their respective ports (42, 28, 30) on control module
(12).
[0018] Vacuum assist is provided by first vacuum line (46) that connects between control
module (12) and outlet port (48) of vacuum canister (50) that catches liquid and solid
debris. Tubing kit (52) completes the pneumatic communication between control module
(12) and biopsy device (14). In particular, second vacuum line (54) is connected to
inlet port (56) of vacuum canister (50). Second vacuum line (54) divides into two
vacuum lines (58, 60) that are attached to biopsy device (14). With biopsy device
(14) installed in holster portion (32), control module (12) performs a functional
check. Saline may be manually injected into biopsy device (14) or otherwise introduced
to biopsy device (14), such as to serve as a lubricant and to assist in achieving
a vacuum seal and/or for other purposes. Control module (12) actuates a cutter mechanism
(not shown) in biopsy device (14), monitoring full travel of a cutter in biopsy device
(14) in the present example. Binding in mechanical cable (26) or within biopsy device
(14) may optionally monitored with reference to motor force exerted to turn mechanical
cable (26) and/or an amount of twist in mechanical cable (26) sensed in comparing
rotary speed or position at each end of mechanical cable (26).
[0019] Remote keypad (62), which is detachable from holster portion (32), communicates via
electrical cable (24) to control panel (12) to enhance clinician control of biopsy
device (14) in the present example, especially when controls that would otherwise
be on biopsy device (14) itself are not readily accessible after insertion into localization
fixture (16) and/or placement of control module (12) is inconveniently remote (e.g.,
30 feet away). However, as with other components described herein, remote keypad (62)
is merely optional, and may be modified, substituted, supplemented, or omitted as
desired. In the present example, aft end thumbwheel (63) on holster portion (32) is
also readily accessible after insertion to rotate the side from which a tissue sample
is to be taken.
[0020] Of course, the above-described control module (12) is merely one example. Any other
suitable type of control module (12) and associated components may be used. By way
of example only, control module (12) may instead be configured and operable in accordance
with the teachings of
U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0228103, entitled "Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device," published September 18, 2008.
As another merely illustrative example, control module (12) may instead be configured
and operable in accordance with the teachings of
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/337,814, entitled "Control Module Interface for MRI Biopsy Device," filed December 18, 2008.
and published as
US 2010-0160817 A1 on 12-11-2012. Alternatively, control module (12) may have any other suitable components,
features, configurations, functionalities, operability, etc. Other suitable variations
of control module (12) and associated components will be apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.
II. Exemplary Localization Assembly
[0021] Left and right parallel upper guides (64, 66) of localization framework (68) are
laterally adjustably received respectively within left and right parallel upper tracks
(70, 72) attached to under side (74) and to each side of a selected breast aperture
(76) formed in patient support platform (78) of breast coil (18). Base (80) of breast
coil (18) is connected by centerline pillars (82) that are attached to patient support
platform (78) between breast apertures (76). Also, a pair of outer vertical support
pillars (84, 86) on each side spaced about a respective breast aperture (76) respectively
define lateral recess (88) within which localization fixture (16) resides.
[0022] It should be appreciated that the patient's breasts hang pendulously respectively
into breast apertures (76) within lateral recesses (88) in the present example. For
convenience, herein a convention is used for locating a suspicious lesion by Cartesian
coordinates within breast tissue referenced to localization fixture (16) and to thereafter
selectively position an instrument, such as needle (90) of probe (91) that is engaged
to holster portion (32) to form biopsy device (14). Of course, any other type of coordinate
system or targeting techniques may be used. To enhance hands-off use of biopsy system
(10), especially for repeated re-imaging within the narrow confines of a closed bore
MRI machine, biopsy system (10) may also guide obturator (92) encompassed by cannula
(94). Depth of insertion is controlled by depth stop device (95) longitudinally positioned
on either needle (90) or cannula (94). Alternatively, depth of insertion may be controlled
in any other suitable fashion.
[0023] This guidance is specifically provided by a lateral fence in the present example,
depicted as grid plate (96), which is received within laterally adjustable outer three-sided
plate bracket (98) attached below left and right parallel upper guides (64, 66). Similarly,
a medial fence with respect to a medial plane of the chest of the patient, depicted
as medial plate (100), is received within inner three-sided plate bracket (102) attached
below left and right parallel upper guides (64, 66) close to centerline pillars (82)
when installed in breast coil (18). To further refine the insertion point of the instrument
(e.g., needle (90) of probe (91), obturator/cannula (92, 94), etc.), guide cube (104)
may be inserted into grid plate (96).
[0024] In the present example, the selected breast is compressed along an inner (medial)
side by medial plate (100) and on an outer (lateral) side of the breast by grid plate
(96), the latter defining an X-Y plane. The X-axis is vertical (sagittal) with respect
to a standing patient and corresponds to a left-to-right axis as viewed by a clinician
facing the externally exposed portion of localization fixture (16). Perpendicular
to this X-Y plane extending toward the medial side of the breast is the Z-axis, which
typically corresponds to the orientation and depth of insertion of needle (90) or
obturator/cannula (92, 94) of biopsy device (14). For clarity, the term Z-axis may
be used interchangeably with "axis of penetration", although the latter may or may
not be orthogonal to the spatial coordinates used to locate an insertion point on
the patient. Versions of localization fixture (16) described herein allow a non-orthogonal
axis of penetration to the X-Y axis to a lesion at a convenient or clinically beneficial
angle.
[0025] It should be understood that the above-described localization assembly (15) is merely
one example. Any other suitable type of localization assembly (15) may be used, including
but not limited to localization assemblies (15) that use a breast coil (18) and/or
localization fixture (16) different from those described above. Other suitable components,
features, configurations, functionalities, operability, etc. for a localization assembly
(15) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings
herein.
III. Exemplary Biopsy Device
[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, one version of biopsy device (14) may comprise holster portion
(32) and probe (91). Exemplary holster portion (32) was discussed previously in the
above section addressing control module (12). The following paragraphs will discuss
probe (91) and associated components and devices in further detail.
[0027] In the present example, cannula (94) and obturator (92) are associated with probe
(91). In particular, and as shown in FIGS. 7, 8, and 9, obturator (92) is slid into
cannula (94) and the combination is guided through guide cube (104) to the biopsy
site within the breast tissue. As shown in FIG. 3, obturator (92) is then withdrawn
from cannula (94), then needle (90) of probe (91) is inserted in cannula (94), and
then biopsy device (14) is operated to acquire one or more tissue samples from the
breast via needle (90).
[0028] Cannula (94) of the present example is proximally attached to cylindrical hub (198)
and cannula (94) includes lumen (196) and lateral aperture (201) proximate to open
distal end (202). Cylindrical hub (198) has exteriorly presented thumbwheel (204)
for rotating lateral aperture (201). Cylindrical hub (198) has interior recess (206)
that encompasses duckbill seal (208), wiper seal (211) and seal retainer (212) to
provide a fluid seal when lumen (196) is empty and for sealing to inserted obturator
(92). Longitudinally spaced measurement indicia (213) along an outer surface of cannula
(94) visually, and perhaps physically, provide a means to locate depth stop device
(95) of FIG. 1.
[0029] Obturator (92) of the present example incorporates a number of components with corresponding
features. Shaft (214) includes fluid lumen (216) that communicates between imageable
side notch (218) and proximal port (220). Shaft (214) is longitudinally sized such
that piercing tip (222) extends out of distal end (202) of cannula (94). Obturator
thumbwheel cap (224) encompasses proximal port (220) and includes locking feature
(226), which includes visible angle indicator (228), that engages cannula thumbwheel
(204) to ensure that imageable side notch (218) is registered to lateral aperture
(201) in cannula (94). Obturator seal cap (230) may be engaged proximally into obturator
thumbwheel cap (224) to close fluid lumen (216). Obturator seal cap (230) of the present
example includes locking or locating feature (232) that includes visible angle indicator
(233) that corresponds with visible angle indicator (228) on obturator thumbwheel
cap (224), which may be fashioned from either a rigid, soft, or elastomeric material.
In FIG. 9, guide cube (104) has guided obturator (92) and cannula (94) through grid
plate (96).
[0030] While obturator (92) of the present example is hollow, it should be understood that
obturator (92) may alternatively have a substantially solid interior, such that obturator
(92) does not define an interior lumen. In addition, obturator (92) may lack side
notch (218) in some versions. Other suitable components, features, configurations,
functionalities, operability, etc. for an obturator (92) will be apparent to those
of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Likewise, cannula (94)
may be varied in a number of ways. For instance, in some other versions, cannula (94)
has a closed distal end (202). As another merely illustrative example, cannula (94)
may have a closed piercing tip (222) instead of obturator (92) having piercing tip
(222). In some such versions, obturator (92) may simply have a blunt distal end; or
the distal end of obturator (92) may have any other suitable structures, features,
or configurations. Other suitable components, features, configurations, functionalities,
operability, etc. for a cannula (94) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in
the art in view of the teachings herein. Furthermore, in some versions, one or both
of obturator (92) or cannula (94) may be omitted altogether. For instance, needle
(90) of probe (91) may be directly inserted into a guide cube (104), without being
inserted into guide cube (104) via cannula (94).
[0031] Another component that may be used with probe (91) (or needle (90)) is depth stop
(95). Depth stop may be of any suitable configuration that is operable to prevent
cannula (94) and obturator (92) (or needle (90)) from being inserted further than
desired. For instance, depth stop (95) may be positioned on the exterior of cannula
(94) (or needle (90)), and may be configured to restrict the extent to which cannula
(94) is inserted into a guide cube. It should be understood that such restriction
by depth stop (95) may further provide a limit on the depth to which the combination
of cannula (94) and obturator (92) (or needle (90)) may be inserted into the patient's
breast. Furthermore, it should be understood that such restriction may establish the
depth within the patient's breast at which biopsy device (14) acquires one or more
tissue samples after obturator (92) has been withdrawn from cannula (94) and needle
(90) has been inserted in cannula (94). Exemplary depth stops (95) that may be used
with biopsy system (10) are described in
U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0255168, entitled "Grid and Rotatable Cube Guide Localization Fixture for Biopsy Device,"
published November 1, 2007.
[0032] In the present example, and as noted above, biopsy device (14) includes a needle
(90) that may be inserted into cannula (94) after the combination of cannula (94)
and obturator (92) has been inserted to a desired location within a patient's breast
and after obturator (92) has been removed from cannula (94). Needle (90) of the present
example comprises a lateral aperture (not shown) that is configured to substantially
align with lateral aperture (201) of cannula (94) when needle (90) is inserted into
lumen (196) of cannula (94). Probe (91) of the present example further comprises a
rotating and translating cutter (not shown), which is driven by components in holster
(32), and which is operable to sever tissue protruding through lateral aperture (201)
of cannula (94) and the lateral aperture of needle (90). Severed tissue samples may
be retrieved from biopsy device (14) in any suitable fashion.
[0033] It should be understood that although biopsy system (10) is discussed above as utilizing
disposable probe assembly (91), other suitable probe assemblies and biopsy device
assemblies may be utilized. By way of example only, a biopsy device such as the biopsy
device (200) shown in FIG. 10 may be used in biopsy system (10). Biopsy device (200)
of this example comprises a needle (290) extending distally from a handpiece (210);
and a tissue sample holder (220) disposed at a proximal end of handpiece (210). Needle
(290) is configured to operate substantially similar to needle (90) discussed above.
For instance, needle (290) is configured to cooperate with a cutter to obtain tissue
samples from a biopsy site. Tissue sample holder (220) is configured to store tissue
samples received through needle (290). By way of example only, biopsy device (200)
may be configured in accordance with at least some of the teachings of
U.S. Pat. No. 8,206,316, entitled "Tetherless Biopsy Device with Reusable Portion," issued June 26, 2012;
U.S. Pat. No. 8,277,394, entitled "Multi-Button Biopsy Device," issued October 2, 2012; and/or
U.S. Pub. No. 2012/0065542, entitled "Biopsy Device Tissue Sample Holder with Removable Tray," published March
15, 2012.
[0034] As yet another merely illustrative example, a biopsy device such as the biopsy device
(300) shown in FIG. 11 may be used in biopsy system (10). Biopsy device (300) of this
example comprises a needle (390) extending distally from a handpiece (310) and a tissue
sample holder (320) disposed at a proximal end of handpiece (310). Needle (290) is
configured to operate substantially similar to needle (90) discussed above. For instance,
needle (390) is configured to cooperate with a cutter to obtain tissue samples from
a biopsy site. Tissue sample holder (320) is configured to store tissue samples received
through needle (390). A cable (330) provides communication of electrical power, commands,
etc. while conduits (340, 342) provide fluid communication. By way of example only,
biopsy device (300) may be configured in accordance with at least some of the teachings
of
U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0160824;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/693,671, entitled "Biopsy Device with Slide-In Probe," filed December 4, 2012; and published
as
US 2013-0144188 A1 on 11-08-2016;
U.S. Non-Provisional Patent App. No. 13/483,235, entitled "Control for Biopsy Device," filed May 30, 2012; and published as
US 2013-0324882 A1 on 12-05-2013; and/or
U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 61/771,212, entitled "Biopsy System with Graphical User Interface," filed March 1, 2013. not
published.
[0035] Still other suitable forms of biopsy devices that may be used in conjunction with
the various alternative components of system (10) as described herein will be apparent
to those of ordinary skill in the art.
IV. Exemplary Guide Cube
[0036] In some versions, a guide cube may comprise a body defined by one or more edges and
faces. The body may include one or more guide holes or other types of passages that
extend between faces of the guide cube and that may be used to guide an instrument
such as a biopsy device (14) or a portion of a biopsy device (14) (e.g., needle (90)
of biopsy device (14), a combination of cannula (94) and obturator (92), etc.). Guide
cubes may be rotatable about one, two, or three axes to position the one or more guide
holes or passages of the guide cube into a desired position.
[0037] In FIG. 4, guide cube (104) includes a central guide hole (106), a corner guide hole
(108), and an off-center guide hole (110) that pass orthogonally to one another between
respective opposite pairs of faces (112, 114, 116). By selectively rotating guide
cube (104) in two axis, one of pairs of faces (112, 114, 116) may be proximally aligned
to an unturned position and then selected proximal face (112, 114, 116) optionally
rotated a quarter turn, half turn, or three quarter turn. Thereby, one of nine guide
positions (118) (i.e., using central guide hole (106)), (120a-120d) (i.e., corner
guide hole (108)), (122a-122d) (i.e., using off-center guide hole (110)) may be proximally
exposed as depicted in FIG. 5.
[0038] In FIG. 6, two-axis rotatable guide cube (104) is sized for insertion from a proximal
side into one of a plurality of square recesses (130) in grid plate (96), which are
formed by intersecting vertical bars (132) and horizontal bars (134). Guide cube (104)
is prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by backing substrate (136) attached
to a front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate (136) includes respective square
opening (138) centered within each square recess (130), forming lip (140) sufficient
to capture the front face of guide cube (104), but not so large as to obstruct guide
holes (104, 106, 108). The depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube
(104), thereby exposing a proximal portion (142) of guide cube (104) for seizing and
extraction from grid plate (96). It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill
in the art based on the teachings herein that backing substrate (136) of grid plate
(96) may be omitted altogether in some versions. In some such versions without backing
substrate (136) other features of a guide cube, as will be discussed in more detail
below, may be used to securely and removably fit a guide cube within a grid plate.
However, such other features may also be used in combination with a grid plate having
backing substrate (136), such as grid plate (96), instead of partially or wholly omitting
backing substrate (136).
V. Exemplary Alternative Targeting Cannulas and Obturators
[0039] As a variation of obturator (92) and cannula (94) discussed above, obturator (92)
and cannula (94) may be arranged such that a distal end of obturator (92) and cannula
(94) present a distal tip having a more effective profile. Among other benefits, such
a profile may make insertion of obturator (92) and cannula (94) into a patient's breast
easier by reducing the force required to penetrate tissue. Such a profile may also
make rotation of obturator (92) and cannula (94) within the patient's breast easier
by reducing the force required to rotate obturator (92) and/or cannula (94) within
a patient's breast. Various examples of how obturator (92) and cannula (94) may be
reconfigured to present a distal tip having a more effective profile will be described
in greater detail below; while other examples will be apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art according to the teachings herein. It should be understood that the
obturator and cannula examples described below may function substantially similar
to obturator (92) and cannula (94) described above. In particular, the obturator and
cannula examples described below may be used to assist in biopsy device needle targeting
within a patient's breast using MRI guidance. It should be understood that the cannula
tip examples discussed below may be used with any of the biopsy devices discussed
above or disclosed herein.
A. First Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0040] FIGS. 12-13 show one merely exemplary variation of a cannula (400). Cannula (400)
is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above. For
instance, cannula (400) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (400) includes a hollow shaft (406) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (410) proximal to an opening
(408) defined within a distal end (402) of cannula (400). As best seen in FIG. 13,
distal end (402) of cannula (400) comprises a beveled edge (404) which extends from
an exterior surface (412) of cannula (400) to opening (408). Beveled edge (404) extends
along a plane that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis defined by hollow shaft
(406). Shaft (214) of obturator (92) is longitudinally sized such that piercing tip
(222) extends out of opening (408) of cannula (400). Beveled edge (404) is configured
to house a portion of piercing tip (222) and to provide an angular transition from
piercing tip (222) and opening (408) to exterior surface (412). Such an angular transition
creates a more streamlined profile which may reduce the force required to insert cannula
(400) and obturator (92) into a patient's breast. Such an angular transition may also
reduce the force required to rotate cannula (400) and obturator (92) in a patient's
breast.
B. Second Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0041] FIGS. 14-15 show another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (500). Cannula (500)
is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above. For
instance, cannula (500) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (500) includes a hollow shaft (506) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (510) proximal to an opening
(508) defined within a distal end (502) of cannula (500). As best seen in FIG. 14,
opening (508) defines a slanted edge (504). Slanted edge (504) extends proximally
from a top of cannula (500) to a bottom of cannula (500) along a plane that is oblique
to a longitudinal axis defined by hollow shaft (506). Shaft (214) of obturator (92)
is longitudinally sized such that piercing tip (222) extends out of opening (508)
of cannula (500). Slanted edge (504) may be beveled or chamfered to provide a smoother
transition between an exterior surface of shaft (214) and an exterior surface (512)
of cannula (500). Slanted edge (504) creates a more streamlined profile which may
reduce the force required to insert cannula (500) and obturator (92) into a patient's
breast. Such a streamlined profile may also reduce the force required to rotate cannula
(500) and obturator (92) in a patient's breast.
C. Third Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0042] FIGS. 16-17 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (600). Cannula
(600) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (600) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (600) includes a hollow shaft (606) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has an opening (608) defined within a distal end
(602) of cannula (600). As best seen in FIG. 16, opening (608) presents a shovel-like
profile defined by a lateral portion (610) and a distal portion (611). Lateral portion
(610) is defined by longitudinally extending lateral edges (603), which are positioned
to run alongside the lateral boundary of side notch (218) when obturator (92) is inserted
in cannula (600); and alongside the lateral boundary of the lateral aperture of a
biopsy needle when a biopsy needle is inserted in cannula (600). Distal portion (611)
of opening (608) is defined by a slanted edge (604), which extends distally from lateral
edges (603) of opening (608) to a bottom of cannula (600) along a plane that is oblique
to a longitudinal axis defined by hollow shaft (606). Shaft (214) of obturator (92)
is longitudinally sized such that piercing tip (222) extends out of opening (608)
of cannula (600). A bottom portion (614) of slanted edge (604) is configured to form
a continuous profile with piercing tip (222). Slanted edge (604) may be beveled or
chamfered to provide a smoother transition between an exterior surface of shaft (214)
and an exterior surface (612) of cannula (600). Slanted edge (604) creates a more
streamlined profile which may reduce the force required to insert cannula (600) and
obturator (92) into a patient's breast. Such a streamlined profile may also reduce
the force required to rotate cannula (600) and obturator (92) in a patient's breast.
D. Fourth Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0043] FIG. 18 shows yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (700). Cannula
(700) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (700) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (700) includes a hollow shaft (706) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (710) proximal to an opening
(708) defined within a distal end (702) of cannula (700). As seen in FIG. 18, opening
(708) defines a slanted edge (704). Slanted edge (704) extends proximally from a top
of cannula (700) to a bottom of cannula (700) along a plane that is oblique to a longitudinal
axis defined by hollow shaft (706). Shaft (214) of obturator (92) is longitudinally
sized such that piercing tip (222) extends out of opening (708) of cannula (700).
A top portion (714) of slanted edge (704) is configured to form a continuous profile
with piercing tip (222). Slanted edge (704) may be beveled or chamfered to provide
a smoother transition between an exterior surface of shaft (214) and an exterior surface
(712) of cannula (700). Slanted edge (704) creates a more streamlined profile which
may reduce the force required to insert cannula (700) and obturator (92) into a patient's
breast. Such a streamlined profile may also reduce the force required to rotate cannula
(700) and obturator (92) in a patient's breast. It should be understood that, although
only top portion (714) of the present example is configured to form a continuous profile
with piercing tip (222), a bottom portion (716) of cannula (700) may be configured
to form a continuous profile with piercing tip (222) in addition to or in lieu of
top portion (714).
E. Fifth Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0044] FIGS. 19-22 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (800). Cannula
(800) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (800) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (800) includes a hollow shaft (806) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (810) proximal to an opening
(808) defined within a distal end (802) of cannula (800). Opening (808) is bounded
by an edge (804). As best seen in FIGS. 19-20, distal end (802) presents a pair of
recessed-longitudinal openings (814) defined in a top and bottom of edge (804) of
cannula (800) and extending from an interior surface (811) of cannula (800) to an
exterior surface (812) of cannula (800). Shaft (214) of obturator (92) is longitudinally
sized such that piercing tip (222) extends out of opening (808) of cannula (800).
[0045] As shown in FIGS. 21-22, each opening of pair of openings (814) is configured to
receive a top edge and a bottom edge of piercing tip (222) such that the top edge
and the bottom edge of piercing tip (222) are substantially aligned with an exterior
surface (812) of cannula (800). Edge (804) may be beveled or chamfered to provide
a smoother transition between an exterior surface of shaft (214) and exterior surface
(812) of cannula (800). It should be understood that piercing tip (222) may be resiliently
biased such that if piercing tip (222) is deformed while being driven through cannula
(800), piercing tip (222) would return to its initial form once driven through opening
(808). Substantial alignment of the top edge and the bottom edge of piercing tip (222)
with exterior surface (812) of cannula (800) creates a more streamlined profile which
may reduce the force required to insert cannula (800) and obturator (92) into a patient's
breast. Such an alignment may also reduce the force required to rotate cannula (800)
and obturator (92) in a patient's breast.
[0046] It should be understood that, although pair of longitudinal openings (814) of the
present example do not extend the length of hollow shaft (806), pair of longitudinal
openings (814) may extend the length of hollow shaft (806) in some versions. In at
least some of such versions, there would be no need for piercing tip (222) to be resiliently
biased because the top edge and/or the bottom edge of piercing tip (222) would pass
through pair of longitudinal openings (814) as piercing tip (222) is driven through
hollow shaft (806) in such versions.
F. Sixth Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0047] FIGS. 23-26 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (900). Cannula
(900) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (900) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (900) includes a hollow shaft (906) that is proximally attached to
a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (910) proximal to an opening
(908) defined within a distal end (902) of cannula (900). Opening (908) defines an
edge (904). As best seen in FIG. 24, distal end (902) presents a pair of longitudinal
channels (914) defined in a top and bottom of an interior surface (911) of cannula
(900) and extending to edge (904). Longitudinal channels (914), however, do not extend
fully to an exterior surface (912) of cannula (900). Shaft (214) of obturator (92)
is longitudinally sized such that piercing tip (222) extends out of opening (908)
of cannula (900).
[0048] As shown in FIGS. 25-26, each channel of pair of longitudinal channels (914) is configured
to receive a top edge and a bottom edge of piercing tip (222) such that the top edge
and the bottom edge of piercing tip (222) are positioned substantially proximal to
an exterior surface (912) of cannula (900). Edge (904) may be beveled or chamfered
to provide a smoother transition between an exterior surface of shaft (214) and exterior
surface (912) of cannula (900) and/or to position the top edge and the bottom edge
of piercing tip (222) more proximally to exterior surface (912) of cannula (900).
It should be understood that piercing tip (222) may be resiliently biased such that
if piercing tip (222) is deformed while being driven through cannula (900), piercing
tip (222) would return to its initial form once driven through opening (908). Substantial
proximity of the top edge and the bottom edge of piercing tip (222) with exterior
surface (912) of cannula (900) creates a more streamlined profile which may reduce
the force required to insert cannula (900) and obturator (92) into a patient's breast.
Such an alignment may also reduce the force required to rotate cannula (900) and obturator
(92) in a patient's breast.
[0049] It should be understood that, although pair of longitudinal channels (914) of the
present example do not extend the length of hollow shaft (906), pair of longitudinal
channels (914) may extend the length of hollow shaft (906) in some versions. In at
least some such versions, there would be no need for piercing tip (222) to be resiliently
biased because the top edge and/or the bottom edge of piercing tip (222) would pass
through pair of longitudinal channels (914) as piercing tip (222) is driven through
hollow shaft (906) in such versions.
G. Seventh Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0050] FIGS. 27-30 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (1000). Cannula
(1000) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (1000) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (1000) includes a hollow shaft (1006) that is proximally attached
to a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (1010) proximal to a vertical
slot (1008) defined within a distal conical end (1002) of cannula (1000). As best
seen in FIG. 28, vertical slot (1008) is bounded by a first conical portion (1004A)
and a second conical portion (1004B).
[0051] As shown in FIGS. 29-30, shaft (214) of obturator (92) is longitudinally sized such
that piercing tip (222) extends out of vertical slot (1008) of cannula (1000). As
best seen in FIG. 30, interior surfaces of first conical portion (1004A) and second
conical portion (1004B) are positioned substantially proximal to an exterior surface
of piercing tip (222) as piercing tip (222) is extended out of vertical slot (1008).
In some versions of cannula (1000), conical portions (1004A, 1004B) may be resiliently-inwardly
biased such that interior surfaces of first conical portion (1004A) and second conical
portion (1004B) are configured to contact the exterior surface of piercing tip (222)
as piercing tip (222) is extended out of vertical slot (1008). First conical portion
(1004A) and second conical portion (1004B) are configured to house piercing tip (222)
and to provide an angular transition from piercing tip (222) and vertical slot (1008)
to exterior surface (1012). Such an angular transition creates a more streamlined
profile which may reduce the force required to insert cannula (1000) and obturator
(92) into a patient's breast. Such an angular transition may also reduce the force
required to rotate cannula (1000) and obturator (92) in a patient's breast.
H. Eighth Exemplary Alternative Obturator and Cannula Tip
[0052] FIGS. 31A-32B show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (1100). Cannula
(1100) is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above.
For instance, cannula (1100) is configured to receive an obturator (1192) and the
combination is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within
a patient's breast. Cannula (1100) includes a hollow shaft (1106) that is proximally
attached to a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (1110) proximal
to a vertical slot (1108) defined within a distal conical end (1102) of cannula (1100).
As best seen in FIGS. 32A-32B, vertical slot (1108) is bounded by a first conical
portion (1104A) and a second conical portion (1104B).
[0053] As shown in FIGS. 32A-32B, a shaft (1194) of obturator (1192) is longitudinally sized
such that a piercing tip (1196) extends out of vertical slot (1008) of cannula (1100).
Interior surfaces of first conical portion (1104A) and second conical portion (1104B)
are configured to be positioned substantially proximal to an exterior surface of piercing
tip (1196) as piercing tip (1196) is extended out of vertical slot (1108). In some
versions of cannula (1100), conical portions (1104A, 1104B) may be resiliently-inwardly
biased such that interior surfaces of first conical portion (1104A) and second conical
portion (1104B) are configured to contact the exterior surface of piercing tip (1196)
as piercing tip (1196) is extended out of vertical slot (1108). First conical portion
(1104A) and second conical portion (1104B) are configured to house piercing tip (1196)
and to provide an angular transition from piercing tip (1196) and vertical slot (1108)
to exterior surface (1112).
[0054] Also as shown in FIGS. 31A-32B, piercing tip (1196) comprises a pair of adjustable
blades (1198A, 1198B). Pair of blades (1198A, 1198B) may be moved radially inwardly
and outwardly to extend and retract relative to a longitudinal axis defined by obturator
(1192). Pair of blades (1198A, 1198B) is movable between an extended position as shown
in FIGS. 31A and 32A and a retracted position as shown in FIGS. 31B and 32B. Such
radial motion allows a user to manipulate the profile of piercing tip (1196). Radial
movement of pair of blades (1198A, 1198B) may be actuated by a mandrel, pivot links,
a pinion and arcuate racks, and/or any other suitable features as will be apparent
to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.
[0055] Manipulation of the profile of piercing tip (1196) may reduce the force required
to insert cannula (1100) and obturator (1192) into a patient's breast. Manipulation
of piercing tip (1196) may also reduce the force required to rotate cannula (1100)
and obturator (1192) in a patient's breast. For instance, during insertion, a user
may find it advantageous to leave piercing tip (1196) in the extended position such
that breast tissue may be better transitioned along pair of blades (1198A, 1198B)
to exterior surface (1112) of cannula (1100). On the other hand, during rotation,
a user may find it advantageous to pivot transition piercing tip (1196) to the retracted
position such that there is less surface area of pair of blades (1198A, 1198B) to
prevent rotation.
I. Exemplary Cannula with Integral Blade
[0056] FIGS. 33-34 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a cannula (1200). Cannula
(1200) includes a hollow shaft (1206) that is proximally attached to a cylindrical
hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (1210) proximal to a piercing tip (1208)
located at a distal end (1202) of cannula (1200). Piercing tip (1208) is configured
to operate substantially similar to piercing tip (222) of obturator (92) discussed
above. Cannula (1200) is configured to slidably receive a blunt tipped obturator (1220)
or a blunt tipped needle (1290) of a biopsy probe. Blunt-tipped obturator (1220) is
configured to operate substantially similar to obturator (92) discussed above. For
instance, and as shown in FIG. 34, blunt tipped obturator (1220) is inserted into
cannula (1220) during insertion and targeting of cannula (1220) within a patient's
breast. Blunt-tipped obturator (1220) is then removed and replaced with needle (1290)
of probe (91) to obtain tissue samples.
VI. Exemplary Depth Stop Member With Alternative Cannula
[0057] As noted above, a depth stop device (95) may be coupled with a cannula (94) to controllably
restrict the depth of insertion of cannula (94) into a patient's breast. By way of
example only, depth stop device (95) may be configured in accordance with at least
some of the teachings of
U.S. Pat. No. 7,507,210. As described in greater detail below, FIGS. 35-36 show an exemplary alternative
form that depth stop device (95) may take. As also described in greater detail below
with reference to FIGS. 39-40, this exemplary alternative form of depth stop device
(95) may also be used to selectively prevent proximal retraction of a cannula relative
to a patient's breast; in addition to restricting the depth of insertion into the
patient's breast.
[0058] FIGS. 35-36 show one merely exemplary variation of a cannula (1300). Cannula (1300)
is configured to function substantially similar to cannula (94) described above. For
instance, cannula (1300) is configured to receive obturator (92) and the combination
is configured to be guided through a guide cube to a biopsy site within a patient's
breast. Cannula (1300) includes a hollow shaft (1306) that is proximally attached
to a cylindrical hub (not shown) and has a lateral aperture (1310) proximal to an
opening (1308) defined within a distal end (1302) of cannula (1300). An exterior surface
(1312) of cannula (1300) presents an exterior threaded region (1314) located proximally
of lateral aperture (1310). A lock nut (1320) presents an interior threaded region
and is configured to be matingly threaded onto exterior threaded region (1314). Lock
nut (1320) is configured to translate longitudinally relative to cannula (1300) as
lock nut (1320) is rotated. Lock nut (1320) is further configured such that lock nut
(1320) cannot pass through guide holes of the guide cube, thereby preventing cannula
(1300) from moving further into a patient's breast. Lock nut (1320) thus serves as
a variation of depth stop device (95). Prior to guiding cannula (1300) into the guide
cube, a user may rotate lock nut (1320) until lock nut (1320) is translated into a
desired longitudinal position along cannula (1300). With lock nut (1320) in this desired
position, cannula (1300) will be prevented from moving beyond this position and further
into a patient's breast.
[0059] It should be understood that although cannula (1300) of the present example utilizes
a single lock nut (1320), other versions of cannula (1300) may utilize multiple lock
nuts (1320) in order to prevent any incidental rotation of lock nut (1320). It should
also be understood that lock nut (1320) may comprise any appropriate thickness or
shape. Finally, it should be understood that any of the cannulas referred to herein
may include threaded region (1314) and thus be configured to receive lock nut (1320).
VII. Exemplary Alternative Guide Cubes
[0060] As a variation of guide cube (104) discussed above, guide cube (104) may be arranged
to prevent backing-out of guide cube (104) relative to grid plate (96) and/or to prevent
backing-out of cannula (1300) relative to guide cube (104). Various examples of how
guide cube (104) may be reconfigured to prevent backing-out of guide cube (104) and/or
cannula (1300) will be described in greater detail below; while other examples will
be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art according to the teachings herein.
It should be understood that the guide cube examples described below may function
substantially similar to guide cube (104) described above. In particular, the guide
cube examples described below may be inserted into grid plate (96) and used to guide
a cannula and obturator into a patient's breast. It should be understood that the
guide cube examples discussed below may be used with any of the biopsy devices discussed
above or disclosed herein.
[0061] FIGS. 37-38 show one merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1400). Guide cube
(1400) comprises a central guide hole (1402) and four corner guide holes (1404, 1406,
1408, 1410) that pass through guide cube (1400) from a first surface (1412) to a second
surface (1414). Guide holes (1402, 1404, 1406, 1408, 1410) are configured to receive
cannula (1300). As best seen in FIG. 37, guide cube (1400) further comprises a plurality
of arcuate projections (1422, 1424, 1426, 1428) extending from first surface (1412)
and adjacent to guide holes (1404, 1406, 1408, 1410). Projections (1422, 1424, 1426,
1428) are configured to engage lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula
(1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where projections (1422, 1424, 1426, 1428)
engage lock nut (1320). As shown in FIG. 39, and as discussed above, lock nut (1320)
prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast by resting against
an outer surface of projections (1422, 1424, 1426, 1428) guide cube (1400).
[0062] Guide cube (1400) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into one of a plurality
of square recesses (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1400) is prevented from passing
through grid plate (96) by backing substrate (136) attached to a front face of grid
plate (96). Backing substrate (136) includes respective square opening (138) centered
within each square recess (130), forming lip (140) sufficient to capture second surface
(1414) of guide cube (1400) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes (1402, 1404,
1406, 1408, 1410). The depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1400),
thereby exposing a proximal portion of guide cube (1400) for seizing and extraction
from grid plate (96).
[0063] A third surface (1416) of guide cube (1400) comprises a resilient arm (1418). As
shown in FIG. 40, arm (1418) is outwardly biased such that when guide cube (1400)
is inserted into a particular square recess of the plurality of square recesses (130),
arm (1418) is forced inwardly such that arm (1418) bears against and exerts pressure
upon an interior surface (144) of the particular square recess. This pressure exerted
upon interior surface (144) may create friction that substantially prevents guide
cube (1400) from backing-out of the particular square recess. This pressure may also
enable guide cube (1400) to fit securely in grid plates with various aperture sizes.
Arm (1418) comprises a bearing surface (1420) configured to bear against interior
surface (144) of the particular square recess to thereby further prevent backing-out
of the particular square recess. Bearing surface (1420) may comprise any suitable
material. For instance, bearing surface (1420) may comprise an elastomeric material
such as rubber or any other material having a high coefficient of friction.
[0064] Arm (1418) further comprises a tab (1430) extending inwardly from an interior surface
of arm (1418). As shown in FIG. 40, as arm (1418) is forced inwardly, tab (1430) is
forced inwardly as well into a closed position. In this closed position, tab (1430)
extends over lock nut (1320) such that neither lock nut (1320) nor cannula (1300)
can back-out of guide cube (1400). In some versions, guide cube (1400) may comprise
further arms to prevent backing-out of cannula (1300) from guide cube (1400) additionally
or in lieu of arm (1418). For instance, as best seen in FIG. 37, central guide hole
(1402) comprises a central resilient arm (1432) having a projection (1434). Projection
(1434) is configured to engage threaded region (1314) of cannula (1300) to prevent
backing-out of cannula (1300) from central guide hole (1402) of guide cube (1400).
[0065] Guide cube (1400) may be inserted into grid plate (96), driving arm (1418) (including
tab (1430)) into an inward position. As cannula (1300) is then inserted into guide
cube (1400), lock nut (1320) engages tab (1430) and drives the exposed portion of
arm (1418) outwardly until lock nut (1320) is positioned between tab (1430) and a
particular projection of projections (1422, 1424, 1426, 1428). Once lock nut (1320)
clears tab (1430), arm (1418) snaps back inwardly, such that lock nut (1320) is captured
between tab (1430) and a particular projection of projections (1422, 1424, 1426, 1428).
Tab (1422) may include a chamfer, curved surface, or other camming feature configured
to facilitate clearance of tab (1430) by lock nut (1320) during insertion of cannula
(1300) into guide cube (1400). To withdraw cannula (1300), an operator may push outwardly
on arm (1418) to provide clearance between tab (1430) and lock nut (1320).
[0066] It should be understood that, although the present example of guide cube (1400) comprises
only a single arm (1418) on a single surface of guide cube (1400), guide cube (1400)
may comprise any number of arms (1418) located on any number of surfaces of guide
cube (1400). For instance, guide cube (1400) may comprise two arms (1418) on opposite
surfaces or adjacent surfaces of guide cube (1400). Guide cube (1400) may alternatively
comprise three arms (1418) or four arms (1418) located on opposite surfaces, adjacent
surfaces, or each surface of guide cube (1400).
[0067] FIGS. 41-45 show another merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1500). Guide
cube (1500) comprises a central guide hole (1520) that passes through guide cube (1500)
from a first side surface (1502) to a second side surface (1504). Guide cube (1500)
further comprises a pair of offset guide holes (1540, 1560) that passes through guide
cube (1500) from a third side surface (1506) to a fourth side surface (1508). Guide
holes (1520, 1540, 1560) are configured to receive any of the cannulas described herein.
Referring to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion
of cannula (1300) into guide holes (1520, 1540, 1560), side surfaces (1502, 1504,
1506, 1508) engage lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot
be inserted beyond a position where side surfaces (1502, 1504, 1506, 1508) engage
lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from
moving further into a patient's breast by resting against side surfaces (1502, 1504,
1506, 1508) of guide cube (1500).
[0068] Guide cube (1500) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96). As best seen in FIG. 41, guide cube (1500) comprises
a projection (1510) extending from a corner of guide cube (1500) adjacent to first
side surface (1502) and third side surface (1506). Projection (1510) defines a first
face (1511A) extending perpendicularly from first side surface (1502) and a second
face (1511B) extending perpendicularly from third side surface (1506). With guide
cube (1500) oriented such that third side surface (1506) and fourth side surface (1508)
are parallel with a front surface of grid plate (96), first face (1511A) is configured
to contact the front surface of grid plate (96) upon being inserted into a square
recess (130) to thereby prevent guide cube (1500) from passing into square recess
(130) beyond first face (1511A). With guide cube (1500) oriented such that first side
surface (1502) and second side surface (1504) are parallel with the front surface
of grid plate (96), second face (1511B) is configured to contact the front surface
of grid plate (96) upon being inserted into square recess (130) to thereby prevent
guide cube (1500) from passing into square recess (130) beyond second face (1511B).
[0069] Guide cube (1500) may be further prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by
backing substrate (136) attached to the front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate
(136) includes respective square opening (138) centered within each square recess
(130), forming lip (140) sufficient to capture second side surface (1504) or fourth
side surface (1508) of guide cube (1500) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes
(1520, 1540, 1560). The depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1500),
thereby exposing a proximal portion of guide cube (1500) for seizing and extraction
from grid plate (96).
[0070] As shown in FIG. 41, first face (1511A) and second face (1511B) respectively define
a first annular recess (1512A) and a second annular recess (1512B). Annular recesses
(1512A, 1512B) are configured to accommodate lock nut (1320) as lock nut (1320) engages
side surfaces (1502, 1504, 1506, 1508).
[0071] Also as shown in FIG. 41, a recess (1515) is formed in a top surface (1514) of guide
cube (1500). A portion of recess (1515) is defined by an exterior surface of a portion
of guide cube (1500) that defines guide hole (1540). As shown in FIGS. 41 and 43,
an opening (1544) is formed in top surface (1514) and the exterior surface of guide
hole (1540) and extends into guide hole (1540). A resilient arm (1542) extends longitudinally
within opening (1544) relative to guide hole (1540). A free end of resilient arm (1542)
comprises a first tab (1543) extending outwardly such that first tab (1543) extends
beyond top surface (1514). The free end of resilient arm (1542) further comprises
a second tab (1545) extending inwardly such that second tab (1545) extends into guide
hole (1540).
[0072] As guide cube (1500) is inserted into a particular square recess (130) of the plurality
of square recesses (130), first tab (1543) of resilient arm (1542) engages an interior
surface (144) of the particular square recess (130) such that resilient arm (1542)
is forced inwardly and further such that first tab (1543) of resilient arm (1542)
bears against and exerts pressure upon interior surface (144) of the particular square
recess (130). Furthermore, as cannula (1300) is inserted into guide hole (1540), an
exterior surface of cannula (1300) engages second tab (1545) of resilient arm (1542)
and forces resilient arm (1542) outwardly such that first tab (1543) of resilient
arm (1542) further bears against and exerts further pressure upon interior surface
(144) of the particular square recess (130) of grid plate (96). This pressure exerted
upon interior surface (144) may create friction that substantially prevents guide
cube (1500) from backing-out of the particular square recess (130). This pressure
may also enable guide cube (1500) to fit securely in grid plates with various aperture
sizes. First tab (1543) may comprise any suitable material. For instance, first tab
(1543) may comprise an elastomeric material such as rubber or any other material having
a high coefficient of friction.
[0073] It should be understood that, as first tab (1543) exerts pressure upon interior surface
(144), second tab (1545) will exert pressure upon the exterior surface of cannula
(1300) to substantially resist backing-out of cannula (1300) from guide cube (1500).
Second tab (1545) may comprise any suitable material. For instance, second tab (1545)
may comprise an elastomeric material such as rubber or any other material having a
high coefficient of friction. In some versions of guide cube (1500), second tab (1545)
may be configured to engage threaded region (1314) of cannula (1300) to further prevent
cannula (1300) from backing-out of guide cube (1500).
[0074] As shown in FIG. 42, a pair of recesses (1517, 1518) are formed in a bottom surface
(1516) of guide cube (1500). A portion of recess (1517) and portion of recess (1518)
are defined by an exterior surface of a portion of guide cube (1500) that defines
guide hole (1560). As shown in FIGS. 42 and 45, an opening (1564) is formed in bottom
surface (1516) and the exterior surface of guide hole (1560) and extends into guide
hole (1560). A resilient arm (1562) extends longitudinally within opening (1564) relative
to guide hole (1560). A free end of resilient arm (1562) comprises a first tab (1563)
extending outwardly such that first tab (1563) extends beyond bottom surface (1516).
The free end of resilient arm (1562) further comprises a second tab (1565) extending
inwardly such that second tab (1565) extends into guide hole (1560).
[0075] As guide cube (1500) is inserted into a particular square recess (130) of the plurality
of square recesses (130), first tab (1563) of resilient arm (1562) engages an interior
surface of (144) the particular square recess (130) such that resilient arm (1562)
is forced inwardly and further such that first tab (1563) of resilient arm (1562)
bears against and exerts pressure upon interior surface (144) of the particular square
recess (130). Furthermore, as cannula (1300) is inserted into guide hole (1560), an
exterior surface of cannula (1300) engages second tab (1565) of resilient arm (1562)
and forces resilient arm (1562) outwardly such that first tab (1563) of resilient
arm (1562) further bears against and exerts further pressure upon interior surface
(144) of the particular square recess (130) of grid plate (96). This pressure exerted
upon interior surface (144) may create friction that substantially prevents guide
cube (1500) from backing-out of the particular square recess (130). This pressure
may also enable guide cube (1500) to fit securely in grid plates with various aperture
sizes. First tab (1563) may comprise any suitable material. For instance, first tab
(1563) may comprise an elastomeric material such as rubber or any other material having
a high coefficient of friction.
[0076] It should be understood that, as first tab (1563) exerts pressure upon interior surface
(144), second tab (1565) will exert pressure upon the exterior surface of cannula
(1300) to substantially resist backing-out of cannula (1300) from guide cube (1500).
Second tab (1565) may comprise any suitable material. For instance, second tab (1565)
may comprise an elastomeric material such as rubber or any other material having a
high coefficient of friction. In some versions of guide cube (1500), second tab (1565)
may be configured to engage threaded region (1314) of cannula (1300) to further prevent
cannula (1300) from backing-out of guide cube (1500).
[0077] As shown in FIG. 44, an opening (1524) is formed in an exterior surface of guide
hole (1520) and extends into guide hole (1520). A resilient arm (1522) extends longitudinally
within opening (1524) relative to guide hole (1520). A free end of resilient arm (1522)
comprises a first tab (1523) extending outwardly through recess (1515) such that first
tab (1523) extends beyond top surface (1514). The free end of resilient arm (1522)
further comprises a second tab (1525) extending inwardly such that second tab (1525)
extends into guide hole (1520).
[0078] As guide cube (1500) is inserted into a particular square recess (130) of the plurality
of square recesses (130), first tab (1523) of resilient arm (1522) engages an interior
surface of the particular square recess (130) such that resilient arm (1522) is forced
inwardly and further such that first tab (1523) of resilient arm (1522) bears against
and exerts pressure upon interior surface (144) of the particular square recess (130).
Furthermore, as cannula (1300) is inserted into guide hole (1520), an exterior surface
of cannula (1300) engages second tab (1525) of resilient arm (1522) and forces resilient
arm (1522) outwardly such that first tab (1523) of resilient arm (1522) further bears
against and exerts further pressure upon interior surface (144) of the particular
square recess (130) of grid plate (96). This pressure exerted upon interior surface
(144) may create friction that substantially prevents guide cube (1500) from backing-out
of the particular square recess (130). This pressure may also enable guide cube (1500)
to fit securely in grid plates with various aperture sizes. First tab (1523) may comprise
any suitable material. For instance, first tab (1523) may comprise an elastomeric
material such as rubber or any other material having a high coefficient of friction.
[0079] As first tab (1523) exerts pressure upon interior surface (144), second tab (1525)
will exert pressure upon the exterior surface of cannula (1300) to substantially resist
backing-out of cannula (1300) from guide cube (1500). Second tab (1525) may comprise
any suitable material. For instance, second tab (1525) may comprise an elastomeric
material such as rubber or any other material having a high coefficient of friction.
In some versions of guide cube (1500), second tab (1525) may be configured to engage
threaded region (1314) of cannula (1300) to further prevent cannula (1300) from backing-out
of guide cube (1500).
[0080] It should be understood that, as guide cube (1500) is inserted into a particular
square recess (130) of the plurality of square recesses (130), first tab (1523) of
resilient arm (1522), first tab (1543) of resilient arm (1542), and first tab (1563)
of resilient arm (1562) will concurrently engage and exert pressure upon respective
interior surfaces (144) of the particular square recess (130) regardless of the orientation
of guide cube (1500) and/or the guide hole (1520, 1540, 1560) into which cannula (1300)
is inserted.
[0081] FIGS. 46-51 show another merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1600). Guide
cube (1600) comprises a central guide hole (1620) that passes through guide cube (1600)
from a first surface (1602) to a second surface (1604). Guide cube (1600) further
comprises a pair of offset guide holes (1622, 1624) that also pass through guide cube
(1600) from first surface (1602) to second surface (1604). In the present example
guide hole (1620) and guide hole (1622) overlap one another in a manner such that
guide holes (1620, 1622) are arranged vertically relative to one another. Guide holes
(1620, 1622, 1624) are configured to receive any of the cannulas described herein
and provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring to cannula (1300)
as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion of cannula (1300) into guide
holes (1620, 1622, 1624), first side surface (1602) engages lock nut (1320) of cannula
(1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where first side
surface (1602) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320) prevents
cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast by abutting first side
surface (1602) of guide cube (1600).
[0082] Guide cube (1600) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1600) comprises a plurality of resilient
members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) extending distally from second side surface (1604).
As best seen in FIG. 49, resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) each comprise
a first portion (1680A, 1682A, 1684A, 1686A) extending distally and outwardly from
second side surface (1604), at an oblique angle away from a center of guide cube (1600).
Resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) each further comprise a second portion
(1680B, 1682B, 1684B, 1686B) extending distally and inwardly from first portions (1680A,
1682A, 1684A, 1686A) respectively, at an oblique angle toward the center of guide
cube (1600). An apex (1680C, 1682C, 1684C, 1686C) is formed between respective first
portions (1680A, 1682A, 1684A, 1686A) and second portions (1680B, 1682B, 1684B, 1686B)
of each resilient member (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686). As will be discussed in more detail
below, resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) are flexible to provide for insertion
of guide cube (1600) into square recesses of varying sizes. Resilient members (1680,
1682, 1684, 1686) are biased toward an initial position as shown in FIG. 49. As guide
cube (1600) is inserted into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate (96), resilient
members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) are driven inwardly toward the center of guide cube
(1600) via contact between interior surfaces of a selected square recess (130) and
apexes (1680C, 1682C, 1684C, 1686C) of resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686).
As such, it should be understood that the bias of resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684,
1686) toward the initial position of FIG. 49, will exert pressure upon respective
interior surfaces (144) of a selected recess (130) to thereby provide for retention
of guide cube (1600) within a selected square recess (130) of grid plate (96). It
should also be understood that resilient members (1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) will exert
pressure upon the respective interior surfaces (144) of selected square recess (130)
of grid plate (96) regardless of the orientation of guide cube (1600) and/or the guide
hole (1620, 1622, 1624) into which cannula (1300) is inserted.
[0083] As discussed above, guide cube (1600) is sized for insertion from a proximal side
into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1600) comprises
a pair of projections (1610, 1612) extending from opposite sides of guide cube (1600)
adjacent to first side surface (1602). Projections (1610, 1612) are configured to
prevent the insertion of guide cube (1600) too deeply within the selected recess (130)
of grid plate (96). As best seen in FIG. 50, projections (1610, 1612) each define
a distal surface (1611, 1613). With guide cube (1600) oriented such that distal surfaces
(1611, 1613) are parallel with the front surface of grid plate (96), distal surfaces
(1611, 1613) are configured to contact the front surface of grid plate (96) upon guide
cube (1600) being inserted into a square recess (130) to thereby prevent guide cube
(1600) from passing into square recess (130) beyond distal surfaces (1611, 1613).
[0084] Guide cube (1600) may be further prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by
backing substrate (136) attached to the front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate
(136) includes respective square opening (138) centered within each square recess
(130), forming lip (140) sufficient to contact a distal tip of each resilient member
(1680, 1682, 1684, 1686) so as to prevent guide cube (1600) from passing further into
grid plate (96) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes (1620, 1622, 1624). The
depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1600), thereby exposing a
proximal portion of guide cube (1600) for seizing and extraction from grid plate (96).
[0085] FIG. 52 shows an exemplary variation of guide cube (1600), guide cube (1600'), having
a merely exemplary variation of the orientation of the guide holes of guide cube (1600).
Unless otherwise noted below, all features of guide cube (1600') are substantially
similar to guide cube (1600). For instance, guide cube (1600') is shown as having
resilient members (1681, 1685) which are substantially similar to resilient members
(1680, 1684). Additionally, other features of guide cube (1600), although not shown
in FIG. 52, may be incorporated into guide cube (1600') and may be substantially similar
to those corresponding features in guide cube (1600).
[0086] Guide cube (1600') of the present example comprises a central guide hole (1630) that
passes through guide cube (1600') from first surface (1603) to second surface (1605).
Like with second surface (1604) of guide cube (1600), second surface (1605) of guide
cube (1600') is on the opposite side of first surface (1603). Guide cube (1600') further
comprises a plurality of offset guide holes (1632, 1634, 1636, 1638, 1640, 1642) that
also pass through guide cube (1600') from first surface (1603) to second surface (1605).
Guide holes (1630, 1632, 1634, 1636, 1638, 1640, 1642) are arranged in an H-shape
as shown in FIG. 52. In the present example, guide hole (1630) and guide hole (1632)
overlap one another on a first side of guide hole (1630), while guide hole (1630)
and guide hole (1638) overlap one another on a second side of guide hole (1630) in
a manner such that guide holes (1630, 1632, 1638) are arranged horizontally relative
to one another. Guide hole (1632) and guide hole (1634) overlap one another on a first
side of guide hole (1632), while guide hole (1632) and guide hole (1636) overlap one
another on a second side of guide hole (1632) in a manner such that guide holes (1632,
1634, 1636) are arranged vertically relative to one another. Guide hole (1638) and
guide hole (1640) overlap one another on a first side of guide hole (1638), while
guide hole (1638) and guide hole (1642) overlap one another on a second side of guide
hole (1638) such that guide holes (1638, 1640, 1642) are arranged vertically relative
to one another. Guide holes (1632, 1634, 1636, 1638, 1640, 1642) are configured to
receive any of the cannulas described herein and provide structural support to the
inserted cannula. Referring to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative example,
upon insertion of cannula (1300) into guide holes (1632, 1634, 1636, 1638, 1640, 1642),
first side surface (1603) engages lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula
(1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where first side surface (1603) engage
lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from
moving further into a patient's breast by abutting first side surface (1603) of guide
cube (1600').
[0087] FIG. 53 shows another exemplary variation of guide cube (1600), guide cube (1600")
having another merely exemplary variation of the orientation of the guide holes of
guide cube (1600). Unless otherwise noted below, all features of guide cube (1600")
are substantially similar to guide cube (1600). For instance, guide cube (1600") is
shown as having resilient member (1690, 1694) which are substantially similar to resilient
members (1680, 1684). Additionally, other features of guide cube (1600), although
not shown in FIG. 53, may be incorporated into guide cube (1600") and may be substantially
similar to those corresponding features in guide cube (1600).
[0088] Guide cube (1600") of the present example comprises a central guide hole (1650) that
passes through guide cube (1600") from first surface (1601) to second surface (1607).
Like with second surface (1604) of guide cube (1600), second surface (1607) of guide
cube (1600") is on the opposite side of first surface (1601). Guide cube (1600") further
comprises a plurality of offset guide holes (1652, 1654, 1656, 1658) that also pass
through guide cube (1600") from first surface (1601) to second surface (1607). Guide
holes (1650, 1652, 1654, 1656, 1658) are arranged in an S-like-shape as shown in FIG.
53. In the present example, guide hole (1650) and guide hole (1652) overlap one another
on a first side of guide hole (1650), while guide hole (1650) and guide hole (1656)
overlap one another on a second side of guide hole (1650) in a manner such that guide
holes (1650, 1652, 1656) are arranged vertically relative to one another. Guide hole
(1652) and guide hole (1654) overlap one another in a manner such that guide holes
(1652, 1654) are arranged horizontally relative to one another. Guide hole (1656)
and guide hole (1658) overlap one another in a manner such that guide holes (1656,
1658) are arranged horizontally relative to one another. Guide holes (1650, 1652,
1654, 1656, 1658) are configured to receive any of the cannulas described herein and
provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring to cannula (1300) as
just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion of cannula (1300) into guide
holes (1650, 1652, 1654, 1656, 1658), first side surface (1601) engages lock nut (1320)
of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where
first side surface (1602) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320)
prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast by abutting first
side surface (1601) of guide cube (1600").
[0089] FIGS. 54-59 show another merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1700). Guide
cube (1700) comprises a central guide hole (1720) that passes through guide cube (1700)
from a first surface (1702) to a second surface (1704). Guide cube (1700) further
comprises a pair of offset guide holes (1740, 1760) that also pass through guide cube
(1700) from first surface (1702) to second surface (1704). As best seen in FIG. 55,
guide cube (1700) comprises a plurality of tubular projections (1722, 1742, 1762)
extending distally from second surface (1704). Tubular projections (1722, 1742, 1762)
are circular or semi-circular in profile, and define a circular or semi-circular hollow
interior corresponding to a respective guide hole (1720, 1740, 1760) such that guide
holes (1720, 1740, 1760) extend through tubular projections (1722, 1742, 1762). In
the present example guide hole (1720) and guide hole (1740) overlap one another in
a manner such that guide holes (1720, 1740) are arranged vertically relative to one
another. Guide holes (1720, 1740, 1760) are configured to receive any of the cannulas
described herein and provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring
to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion of cannula
(1300) into guide holes (1720, 1740, 1760), first side surface (1702) engages lock
nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond a
position where first side surface (1702) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed above,
lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast
by abutting first side surface (1702) of guide cube (1700).
[0090] Guide cube (1700) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1700) comprises a plurality of resilient
members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) extending distally from second side surface (1704).
As best seen in FIG. 57, resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) each comprise
a first portion (1780A, 1782A, 1784A, 1786A) extending distally and outwardly from
second side surface (1704), and at an oblique angle away from a center of guide cube
(1700). Resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) each further comprise a second
portion (1780B, 1782B, 1784B, 1786B) that is tapered and extending distally and inwardly
from first portions (1780A, 1782A, 1784A, 1786A) respectively, at an oblique angle
toward the center of guide cube (1700). An apex (1780C, 1782C, 1784C, 1786C) is formed
between respective first portions (1780A, 1782A, 1784A, 1786A) and second portions
(1780B, 1782B, 1784B, 1786B) of each resilient member (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786). As
will be discussed in more detail below, resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786)
are flexible to provide for insertion of guide cube (1700) into square recesses of
varying sizes. Resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) are biased toward an initial
position as shown in FIG. 57. As guide cube (1700) is inserted into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96), resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) are driven
inwardly toward the center of guide cube (1700) via contact between interior surfaces
of a selected square recess (130) and apexes (1780C, 1782C, 1784C, 1786C) of resilient
members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786). As such, it should be understood that the bias of
resilient members (1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) toward the initial position of FIG. 57,
will exert pressure upon respective interior surfaces of a selected recess (130) to
thereby provide for retention of guide cube (1700) within a selected square recess
(130) of grid plate (96). It should also be understood that resilient members (1780,
1782, 1784, 1786) will exert pressure upon the respective interior surfaces (144)
of selected square recess (130) of grid plate (96) regardless of the orientation of
guide cube (1700) and/or the guide hole (1720, 1740, 1760) into which cannula (1300)
is inserted.
[0091] As discussed above, guide cube (1700) is sized for insertion from a proximal side
into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1700) comprises
a pair of projections (1710, 1712) extending from opposite sides of guide cube (1700)
adjacent to first side surface (1702). Projections (1710, 1712) are configured to
prevent the insertion of guide cube (1700) too deeply within a selected recess (130)
of grid plate (96). As best seen in FIG. 55, projections (1710, 1712) each define
a distal surface (1711, 1713). With guide cube (1700) oriented such that distal surfaces
(1711, 1713) are parallel with the front surface of grid plate (96), distal surfaces
(1711, 1713) are configured to contact the front surface of grid plate (96) upon guide
cube (1700) being inserted into a square recess (130) to thereby prevent guide cube
(1700) from passing into square recess (130) beyond distal surfaces (1711, 1713).
[0092] Guide cube (1700) may be further prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by
backing substrate (136) attached to the front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate
(136) includes respective square opening (138) centered within each square recess
(130), forming lip (140) sufficient to contact a distal tip of each resilient member
(1780, 1782, 1784, 1786) so as to prevent guide cube (1700) from passing further into
grid plate (96) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes (1720, 1740, 1760). The
depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1700), thereby exposing a
proximal portion of guide cube (1700) for seizing and extraction from grid plate (96).
[0093] FIG. 60 shows an exemplary variation of guide cube (1700), guide cube (1700'), having
a merely exemplary variation of the orientation of the guide holes of guide cube (1700).
Unless otherwise noted below, all features of guide cube (1700') are substantially
similar to guide cube (1700). For instance, guide cube (1700') is shown as having
resilient members (1790, 1794) which are substantially similar to resilient members
(1780, 1784). Similarly, guide cube (1700') is shown as having projections (1715,
1717) which are substantially similar to projections (1710, 1712) of guide cube (1700).
Additionally, other features of guide cube (1600), although not shown in FIG. 53,
may be incorporated into guide cube (1600") and may be substantially similar to those
corresponding features in guide cube (1600).
[0094] Guide cube (1700') of the present example comprises a central guide hole (1721) that
passes through guide cube (1700') from first surface (1703) to second surface (not
shown). Guide cube (1700') further comprises a plurality of offset guide holes (1741,
1743, 1761, 1763) that also pass through guide cube (1700') from first surface (1703)
to second surface (not shown). Guide holes (1721, 1741, 1743, 1761, 1763) are arranged
in an S-like shape as shown in FIG. 60. In the present example, guide hole (1721)
and guide hole (1741) overlap one another on a first side of guide hole (1721), while
guide hole (1721) and guide hole (1761) overlap one another on a second side of guide
hole (1721) in a manner such that guide holes (1721, 1743, 1761) are arranged vertically
relative to one another. Guide hole (1741) and guide hole (1743) overlap one another
in a manner such that guide holes (1741, 1743) are arranged horizontally relative
to one another. Guide hole (1761) and guide hole (1763) overlap one another in a manner
such that guide holes (1761, 1763) are arranged horizontally relative to one another.
Guide holes (1721, 1741, 1743, 1761, 1763) are configured to receive any of the cannulas
described herein and provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring
to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion of cannula
(1300) into guide holes (1721, 1741, 1743, 1761, 1763), first side surface (1703)
engages lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted
beyond a position where first side surface (1703) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed
above, lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's
breast by abutting first side surface (1703) of guide cube (1700').
[0095] FIGS. 61-68 show yet another merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1800). Guide
cube (1800) comprises a central guide hole (1820) that passes through guide cube (1800)
from a first surface (1802) to a second surface (1804). Guide cube (1800) further
comprises a pair of offset guide holes (1840, 1860) that also pass through guide cube
(1800) from first surface (1802) to second surface (1804). In the present example
guide hole (1820) and guide hole (1840) overlap one another in a manner such that
guide holes (1820, 1840) are arranged vertically relative to one another. Guide holes
(1820, 1840, 1860) are configured to receive any of the cannulas described herein
and provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring to cannula (1300)
as just one merely illustrative example, and as shown in FIGS. 67A-67C, upon insertion
of cannula (1300) into guide holes (1820, 1840, 1860), first side surface (1802) engages
lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond
a position where first side surface (1802) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed above,
lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast
by abutting first side surface (1802) of guide cube (1800).
[0096] Guide cube (1800) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1800) comprises a plurality of resilient
members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) extending distally from second side surface (1804).
As best seen in FIG. 49, resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) each comprise
a first portion (1880A, 1882A, 1884A, 1886A) extending distally and outwardly from
second side surface (1804), at an oblique angle away from a center of guide cube (1800).
Resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) each further comprise a second portion
(1880B, 1882B, 1884B, 1886B) extending distally and inwardly from first portions (1880A,
1882A, 1884A, 1886A) respectively, at an oblique angle toward the center of guide
cube (1800). An apex (1880C, 1882C, 1884C, 1886C) is formed between respective first
portions (1880A, 1882A, 1884A, 1886A) and second portions (1880B, 1882B, 1884B, 1886B)
of each resilient member (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886). As will be discussed in more detail
below, resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) are flexible to provide for insertion
of guide cube (1800) into square recesses of varying sizes. Resilient members (1880,
1882, 1884, 1886) are biased toward an initial position as shown in FIG. 64. As guide
cube (1800) is inserted into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate (96), resilient
members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) are driven inwardly toward the center of guide cube
(1800) via contact between interior surfaces of a selected square recess (130) and
apexes (1880C, 1882C, 1884C, 1886C) of resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886).
As such, it should be understood that the bias of resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884,
1886) toward the initial position of FIG. 64, will exert pressure upon respective
interior surfaces of a selected recess (130) to thereby provide for retention of guide
cube (1800) within a selected square recess (130) of grid plate (96). It should also
be understood that resilient members (1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) will exert pressure
upon the respective interior surfaces of selected square recess (130) of grid plate
(96) regardless of the orientation of guide cube (1800) and/or the guide hole (1820,
1840, 1860) into which cannula (1300) is inserted.
[0097] As discussed above, guide cube (1800) is sized for insertion from a proximal side
into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate (96). Guide cube (1800) comprises
a pair of projections (1810, 1812) extending from opposite sides of guide cube (1800)
adjacent to first side surface (1802). Projections (1810, 1812) are configured to
prevent the insertion of guide cube (1800) too deeply within a selected recess (130)
of grid plate (96). As best seen in FIG. 65, projections (1810, 1812) each define
a distal surface (1811, 1813). With guide cube (1800) oriented such that distal surfaces
(1811, 1813) are parallel with the front surface of grid plate (96), distal surfaces
(1811, 1813) are configured to contact the front surface of grid plate (96) upon guide
cube (1800) being inserted into a square recess (130) to thereby prevent guide cube
(1800) from passing into square recess (130) beyond distal surfaces (1811, 1813).
[0098] Guide cube (1800) may be further prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by
backing substrate (136) attached to the front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate
(136) includes respective square opening (138) centered within each square recess
(130), forming lip (140) sufficient to contact a distal tip of each resilient member
(1880, 1882, 1884, 1886) so as to prevent guide cube (1800) from passing further into
grid plate (96) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes (1820, 1840, 1860). The
depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1800), thereby exposing a
proximal portion of guide cube (1800) for seizing and extraction from grid plate (96).
[0099] Guide cube (1800) comprises a locking member (1890) rotatably coupled to guide cube
(1800) via a pin (1892) extending from first surface (1802) such that locking member
(1890) is operable to rotate about pin (1892) along a plane parallel with first surface
(1802). As best seen in FIG. 64, locking member (1890) is secured to pin (1892) at
a distance (D1) from first surface (1802) of guide cube (1800) such that distance
(D1) exists between first surface (1802) of guide cube (1800) and the plane along
which locking member (1890) rotates. As will be discussed in more detail below, distance
(D1) is substantially similar to a thickness of lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300).
Also as will be discussed in more detail below, and as shown in FIGS. 63A and 63B,
locking member (1890) is operable to rotate between an unlocked position (FIG. 63A)
and a locked position (FIG. 63B) to thereby selectively lock and/or unlock any of
the cannulas described herein within guide cube (1800).
[0100] Locking member (1890) comprises a pair of arcuate recesses (1894, 1896). As shown
in FIG. 63B, when in the locked position, arcuate recesses (1894, 1896) are configured
to lay adjacent to the circular profile of guide holes (1820, 1840) respectively.
FIGS. 67A-68 show the steps of locking cannula (1300) within guide hole (1820) of
guide cube (1800). FIG. 67A shows cannula (1300) in a first longitudinal position
removed from guide cube (1800). With cannula (1300) in this position, locking member
(1890) is in the unlocked position such that cannula (1300) may be received within
guide hole (1820) of guide cube (1800). Cannula (1300) is then moved into a second
longitudinal position such that cannula (1300) is passed into guide hole (1820) to
a point where a distal surface of lock nut (1320) engages first surface (1802) of
guide cube (1800) as shown in FIG. 67B. As cannula (1300) is moved into this position,
locking member (1890) remains in the unlocked position such that cannula (1300) may
be received within guide hole (1820) of guide cube (1800). Once cannula (1300) has
been passed within guide hole (1820) to the point where the distal surface of lock
nut (1320) engages first surface (1802) of guide cube (1800), locking member (1890)
is rotated into the locked position as shown in FIGS. 67C and 68. In the locked position,
locking member (1890) engages a proximal surface of lock nut (1320) such that cannula
(1300) is locked within guide hole (1820) of guide cube (1800). In other words, guide
cube (1800) cooperates with lock nut (1320) to restrict distal movement of cannula
(1300) relative to guide cube (1800); while locking member (1890) cooperates with
lock nut (1320) to restrict proximal movement of cannula (1300) relative to guide
cube (1800).
[0101] FIGS. 69-79 show another merely exemplary variation of a guide cube (1900). Guide
cube (1900) comprises a central guide hole (1920) that passes through guide cube (1900)
from a first side surface (1902) to a second side surface (1904). Guide cube (1900)
further comprises a pair of offset guide holes (1940, 1960) that passes through guide
cube (1900) from a third side surface (1906) to a fourth side surface (1908). Guide
holes (1920, 1940, 1960) are configured to receive any of the cannulas described herein
and provide structural support to the inserted cannula. Referring to cannula (1300)
as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion of cannula (1300) into guide
holes (1920, 1940, 1960), side surfaces (1902, 1906) engage lock nut (1320) of cannula
(1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where side surfaces
(1902, 1906) engage lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320) prevents
cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast by abutting side surfaces
(1902, 1906) of guide cube (1900).
[0102] Guide cube (1900) is sized for insertion from a proximal side into a selected square
recess (130) in grid plate (96). As best seen in FIG. 69, guide cube (1900) comprises
a projection (1910) extending from a corner of guide cube (1900) adjacent to first
side surface (1902) and third side surface (1906). Projection (1910) defines a first
face (1911A) extending perpendicularly from first side surface (1902) and a second
face (1911B) extending perpendicularly from third side surface (1906). With guide
cube (1900) oriented such that third side surface (1906) and fourth side surface (1908)
are parallel with a front surface of grid plate (96), first face (1911A) is configured
to contact the front surface of grid plate (96) upon being inserted into a square
recess (130) to thereby prevent guide cube (1900) from passing into square recess
(130) beyond first face (1911A). With guide cube (1900) oriented such that first side
surface (1902) and second side surface (1904) are parallel with the front surface
of grid plate (96), second face (1911B) is configured to contact the front surface
of grid plate (96) upon being inserted into square recess (130) to thereby prevent
guide cube (1900) from passing into square recess (130) beyond second face (1911B).
[0103] Guide cube (1900) may be further prevented from passing through grid plate (96) by
backing substrate (136) attached to the front face of grid plate (96). Backing substrate
(136) includes respective square opening (138) centered within each square recess
(130), forming lip (140) sufficient to capture second side surface (1904) or fourth
side surface (1908) of guide cube (1900) but not so large as to obstruct guide holes
(1920, 1940, 1960). The depth of square recesses (130) is less than guide cube (1900),
thereby exposing a proximal portion of guide cube (1900) for seizing and extraction
from grid plate (96).
[0104] As shown in FIG. 69, first face (1911A) and second face (1911B) respectively define
a first annular recess (1912A) and a second annular recess (1912B). Annular recesses
(1912A, 1912B) are configured to accommodate lock nut (1320) as lock nut (1320) engages
side surfaces (1902, 1906).
[0105] Also as shown in FIG. 69, a recess (1915) is formed in a top surface (1914) of guide
cube (1900). As best seen in FIG. 74, recess (1915) extends through a sidewall of
guide hole (1940) such that recess (1915) is in fluid communication with the interior
of guide hole (1940). A first through bore (1915A) passes from third side surface
(1906) into recess (1915). A second through bore (1915B) passes from fourth side surface
(1908) into recess (1915). As best seen in FIG. 76, a roller (1990) is rotatably disposed
within recess (1915) and secured therein by a pair of pegs (1991, 1992) rotatably
disposed within through bores (1915A, 1915B). As best seen in FIG. 74, roller (1990)
is sized such that a portion (1990A) of roller (1990) extends from recess (1915) and
into guide hole (1940) such that portion (1990A) of roller (1990) will engage cannula
(1300) when cannula (1300) is disposed within guide hole (1940). It should therefore
be understood that roller (1990) may provide frictional retention of cannula (1300)
within guide hole (1940). Roller (1990) may comprise an elastomeric or otherwise deformable
material.
[0106] As best seen in FIG. 76, recess (1915) also extends through a sidewall of guide hole
(1920) such that recess (1915) is in fluid communication with the interior of guide
hole (1920). Roller (1990) is sized such that a portion (1990B) of roller (1990) also
extends from recess (1915) and into guide hole (1920) such that portion (1990B) of
roller (1990) will engage cannula (1300) when cannula (1300) is disposed within guide
hole (1920). It should therefore be understood that roller (1990) may provide frictional
retention of cannula (1300) within guide hole (1920).
[0107] As shown in FIGS. 74 and 75, a recess (1917) is formed in a bottom surface (1916)
of guide cube (1900). Recess (1917) extends through a sidewall of guide hole (1960)
such that recess (1917) is in fluid communication with the interior of guide hole
(1960). A first through bore (1917A) passes from third side surface (1906) into recess
(1917). A second through bore (1917B) passes from fourth side surface (1908) into
recess (1917). As best seen in FIG. 76, a roller (1994) is rotatably disposed within
recess (1917) and secured therein by a pair of pegs (1995, 1996) rotatably disposed
within through bores (1917A, 1917B). As best seen in FIG. 74, roller (1994) is sized
such that a portion (1994A) of roller (1994) extends from recess (1917) and into guide
hole (1960) such that portion (1994A) of roller (1994) will engage cannula (1300)
when cannula (1300) is disposed within guide hole (1960). It should therefore be understood
that roller (1994) may provide frictional retention of cannula (1300) within guide
hole (1960).
[0108] As best seen in FIG. 70, a portion (1990C) of roller (1990) extends outwardly from
top surface (1914) from recess (1915), and a portion (1994B) of roller (1994) extends
outwardly from bottom surface (1916) from recess (1917). It should be understood that
as guide cube (1900) is inserted into a selected square recess (130) in grid plate
(96), portions (1990C, 1994B) of rollers (1990, 1994) will exert pressure upon respective
interior surfaces (144) of a selected recess (130) to thereby provide for retention
of guide cube (1900) within a selected square recess (130) of grid plate (96). It
should also be understood that portions (1990C, 1994B) of rollers (1990, 1994) will
exert pressure upon the respective interior surfaces of selected square recess (130)
of grid plate (96) regardless of the orientation of guide cube (1900) and/or the guide
hole (1920, 1940, 1960) into which cannula (1300) is inserted.
[0109] It should be understood that rollers (1990, 1994) may comprise a flexible material,
such as rubber, urethane, silicone, or a more rigid material. Other suitable materials
and combinations of materials that may be used to form rollers (1990, 1994) will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.
VIII. Exemplary Z-Stop Locking Devices
[0110] In FIG. 80, grid plate (96) and guide cube (104) of biopsy system (10) of FIG. 1,
have been replaced with a lateral fence (194) and a pedestal (120) supported by lateral
fence (194). Lateral fence (194) and pedestal (120), best seen in FIG. 81, may be
configured and operable in accordance with the teachings of
U.S. Pub. No. 2006/0258956, entitled "MRI Biopsy Device," published November 16, 2006. Like grid plate (96)
discussed above, lateral fence (194) is downwardly received into three-sided frame
(98) of the localization framework (68), defining an X-Y plane. Perpendicular to this
X-Y plane extending toward the medial side of the breast is the Z-axis, which typically
corresponds to the orientation and depth of insertion of probe (91). An origin of
the spatial coordinates may be imaging the dents imparted to the tissue by the lateral
fence (194). Alternatively, a disposable fiducial pointer (127) held by a fiducial
holder (129) is filled with an MRI imageable material (e.g., KY jelly, saline, gadolinium)
and sealed with a cap (123).
[0111] As shown in FIGS. 83 and 84, probe (91), cannula (94), and fiducial pointer (127)
are guided by localization fixture (16). With particular reference to FIG. 81, pedestal
(120) spatially positions left and right primary targeting rails (121A, 121B) that
in turn guide fiducial pointer (127), cannula (94), or probe (91) of biopsy device
(10). Primary targeting rails (121A, 121B) each include an attachment axle (124) that
receives in either a left or right side an axle hub (125) of a (Y-axis) height yoke
(126) that is vertically adjustable upon a pedestal main body (128), that in turn
is laterally adjustable upon lateral fence (194). Alternatively, a breast coil may
enable mounting the pedestal main body on the medial plate (100) for accessing medially.
The pedestal main body (128) includes a proximal upright rectangular column (133)
with a thinner wall (135) projecting from its distal side that flares laterally outward
(defining left and right vertical rectangular slots (137, 139)) as part of a bracket
(141) with top and bottom hanger arms (172, 173) that slide laterally respectively
on a top track (148) and a proximally open lower track (150) formed in lateral fence
(194). A lateral (X-axis) adjustment lever (151) may be raised to lift its distal
end (149) out of engagement with a bottom track (147) formed in lateral fence (194)
as lateral adjustment lever (151) is repositioned to the left or right to a desired
location with reference to a lateral measurement guide (145).
[0112] Height yoke (126) is a rectangular cuff interrupted in a mid-portion of a distal
side to form locking left and right hands (152) respectively which ride vertically
in left and right vertical rectangular slots (137, 139). Locking left and right hands
(152) have respective ridged proximal surfaces (not shown) that are selectively drawn
proximally into locking engagement by a height locking lever (156) with a ridged surface
(158) on a proximal side of each vertical rectangular slot (137, 139). Lifting height
locking lever (156) takes height yoke (126) out of locking engagement to pedestal
main body (128) as height yoke (126) is vertically repositioned. For height adjustment,
the proximal top surface of height yoke (126) serves as a sight (160) to read a height
measurement scale (162) presented on a proximal surface of height locking lever (156).
[0113] Attachment axle (124) allows rotation so the Z-axis include an upward or downward
trajectory. In the illustrative version, proximal corners of height yoke (126) include
angle detents (164) (e.g., -15°, 0°, +15°) that are selectable by an angle lock lever
(166). The primary targeting rail (121B) includes a distal detent (167) that serves
as a home reference for fiducial holder (129).
[0114] In FIG. 82, a guidance assembly (240), that may be attached to pedestal (120), includes
a cradle (242) whose upper lateral side (242A) flares upwardly to engage a bottom
channel (243) of primary targeting rail (121B). A lower lateral side (242B) flares
horizontally to provide a holster guide track (244) that underlies the Z-axis. Primary
targeting rail (121B) includes a longitudinal guide tab (246). Examples of locking
devices that may be coupled with pedestal (120) for controlling a depth of penetration
of probe (91) will now be discussed.
A. First Exemplary Z-Stop Locking Device
[0115] FIGS. 85-92B show an exemplary Z-stop locking device (2000) operable to be used with
lateral fence (194) and pedestal (120) to control the depth of penetration of probe
(91). To provide additional guidance to the MRI biopsy device (14), locking device
(2000) includes a secondary targeting rail (2010) having a lateral channel (2012)
that is engageable with and guided along longitudinal guide tab (246) of primary targeting
rail (121B) of pedestal (120). When fully engaged thereon, a pawl (2014) pivoting
under urging of a pawl spring (2016) about a vertical pawl pin (2018) in a lateral
window (2019) engages longitudinal guide tab (246) of primary targeting rail (121B)
to thereby retain the position of locking device (2000) relative to longitudinal guide
tab (246). In particular, as shown in FIGS. 92A and 92B, pawl (2014) is biased from
the position shown in FIG. 92A toward the position shown in FIG. 92B. Such a bias
causes pawl (2014) to engage longitudinal guide tab (246) to thereby retain the longitudinal
position of locking device (2000) relative to longitudinal guide tab (246). For instance,
pawl (2014) may ratchet along a plurality of teeth of guide tab (246); or may frictionally
bear against guide tab (246).
[0116] Locking device (2000) comprises a stationary member (2040) having a circular recess
(2042) formed in a proximal surface (2047) of stationary member (2040). As will be
discussed in more detail below, circular recess (2042) is sized to receive lock nut
(1320) of cannula (1300). A depth of circular recess (2042) is substantially similar
to a thickness of lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300). A guide hole (2044) is defined
within a bottom surface (2046) of circular recess (2042). Guide hole (2044) passes
through stationary member (2040) from bottom surface (2046) to a distal surface (2048)
of stationary member (2040). Guide hole (2044) is configured to receive any of the
cannulas described herein. Referring to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative
example, upon insertion of cannula (1300) into guide hole (2044), bottom surface (2046)
engages lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted
beyond a position where bottom surface (2046) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed
above, lock nut (1320) prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's
breast by abutting bottom surface (2046) of stationary member (2040).
[0117] Secondary targeting rail (2010) includes an integral cylindrical tube (2020). A locking
member (2030) is rotatably disposed within cylindrical tube (2020) of secondary targeting
rail (2010). Locking member (2030) comprises a trigger (2032), a rod (2034), and a
locking arm (2036). Rod (2034) is rotatably disposed within cylindrical tube (2020)
such that locking member (2030) is operable to rotate between an unlocked position,
shown in FIG. 87A, and a locked position, shown in FIG. 87B. Trigger (2032) extends
perpendicularly from a first end of rod (2034) while locking arm (2036) extends perpendicularly
from a second end of rod (2034). Thus, it should be understood that a user may rotate
trigger (2032) to cause concurrent rotation of locking arm (2036). Locking arm (2036)
comprises an arcuate recess (2038). As shown in FIG. 87B, when in the locked position,
arcuate recess (2038) is configured to lay adjacent to the circular profile of guide
hole (2044). As shown in FIG. 88, a distal surface (2039) of locking arm (2036) is
substantially proximal to proximal surface (2047) of stationary member (2040) such
that in the locked position, distal surface (2039) of locking arm (2036) is adjacent
to an opening of circular recess (2042).
[0118] FIGS. 91A-91C show the steps of locking cannula (1300) within guide hole (2044) of
locking device (2000). FIG. 91A shows cannula (1300) in a first longitudinal position
removed from locking device (2000). With cannula (1300) in this position, locking
arm (2036) is in the unlocked position such that cannula (1300) may be received within
circular recess (2042) and guide hole (2044) of stationary member (2040). Cannula
(1300) is then moved into a second longitudinal position such that lock nut (1320)
is disposed within circular recess (2042) of stationary member (2040) and such that
cannula (1300) is passed into guide hole (2044) to a point where a distal surface
of lock nut (1320) engages bottom surface (2046) of circular recess (2042) as shown
in FIG. 91B. As cannula (1300) is moved into this position, locking arm (2036) remains
in the unlocked position such that lock nut (1320) may be positioned within circular
recess (2042) of stationary member (2040) and such that cannula (1300) may be passed
into guide hole (2044) of stationary member (2040). Once lock nut (1320) has been
positioned within circular recess (2042) and once cannula (1300) has been positioned
within guide hole (2044) to the point where the distal surface of lock nut (1320)
engages bottom surface (2046) of circular recess (2042), locking arm (2036) is rotated
into the locked position by rotation of trigger (2032) of locking member (2030) as
shown in FIG. 91C. In the locked position, distal surface (2039) of locking arm (2036)
engages a proximal surface of lock nut (1320) such that cannula (1300) is locked within
circular recess (2042) and within guide hole (2044) of stationary member (2040) of
locking device (2000). In other words, bottom surface (2046) and lock nut (1320) cooperate
to restrict distal movement of cannula (1300); while locking arm (2036) and lock nut
(1320) cooperate to restrict proximal movement of cannula (1300).
B. Second Exemplary Z-Stop Locking Device
[0119] FIGS. 93-103C show an exemplary alternative Z-stop locking device (2100) operable
to be used with lateral fence (194) and pedestal (120) to control the depth of penetration
of probe (91). To provide additional guidance to the MRI biopsy device (14), locking
device (2100) includes a secondary targeting rail (2110) having a lateral channel
(2112) that is engageable with and guided along longitudinal guide tab (246) of primary
targeting rail (121B) of pedestal (120). When fully engaged thereon, a pawl (2114)
pivoting under urging of a pawl spring (2116) about a vertical pawl pin (2118) in
a lateral window (2119) engages longitudinal guide tab (246) of primary targeting
rail (121B) to thereby retain the position of locking device (2000) relative to longitudinal
guide tab (246). In particular, as discussed above with reference to locking device
(2000), and as shown in FIGS. 92A and 92B, pawl (2114) of the present example is biased
from the position shown in FIG. 92A toward the position shown in FIG. 92B. Such a
bias causes pawl (2114) to engage longitudinal guide tab (246) to thereby retain the
longitudinal position of locking device (2100) relative to longitudinal guide tab
(246). For instance, pawl (2114) may ratchet along a plurality of teeth of guide tab
(246); or may frictionally bear against guide tab (246).
[0120] Locking device (2100) comprises a stationary member (2140) having a circular recess
(2142) formed in a proximal surface (2147) of stationary member (2140). As will be
discussed in more detail below, circular recess (2142) is sized to receive lock nut
(1320) of cannula (1300). A depth of circular recess (2142) is substantially similar
to a thickness of lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300). A guide hole (2144) is defined
within a bottom surface (2146) of circular recess (2142). Guide hole (2144) passes
through stationary member (2140) from bottom surface (2146) to a distal surface (2148)
of stationary member (2140). Guide hole (2144) is configured to receive any of the
cannulas described herein and provide structural support to the inserted cannula.
Referring to cannula (1300) as just one merely illustrative example, upon insertion
of cannula (1300) into guide hole (2144), bottom surface (2146) engages lock nut (1320)
of cannula (1300) such that cannula (1300) cannot be inserted beyond a position where
bottom surface (2146) engages lock nut (1320). As discussed above, lock nut (1320)
prevents cannula (1300) from moving further into a patient's breast by abutting bottom
surface (2146) of stationary member (2140).
[0121] Locking device (2100) further comprises a locking arm (2130) rotatably secured to
stationary member (2140) via a pin (2132) such that locking arm (2130) is rotatable
about pin (2132) relative to circular recess (2142). As will be discussed in more
detail below, locking arm (2130) is operable to be rotated between an unlocked position,
shown in FIG. 97A, and a locked position, shown in FIG. 97B. Locking arm (2130) is
biased toward the locked position via a spring (not shown). Locking arm (2130) comprises
an arcuate recess (2134). As shown in FIG. 97B, when in the locked position, arcuate
recess (2134) is configured to lay adjacent to the circular profile of guide hole
(2144). As shown in FIG. 98, a distal surface (2136) of locking arm (2130) is substantially
proximal to proximal surface (2147) of stationary member (2140) such that in the locked
position, distal surface (2136) of locking arm (2130) is adjacent to an opening of
circular recess (2142).
[0122] Stationary member (2140) further comprises a rounded rectangular through bore (2150).
A stabilizing member (2152) is rotatably secured within rounded rectangular through
bore (2150) via a pin (2154) such that stabilizing member (2152) is rotatable about
pin (2154) relative to stationary member (2140). As best seen in FIG. 96, stabilizing
member (2152) comprises a bearing column (2155) having an angled top surface (2156).
Stabilizing member (2152) is operable to rotate between a first position, shown in
FIG. 97A, where locking arm (2130) bears against top surface (2156) of bearing column
(2155) of stabilizing member (2152) such that locking arm (2130) is retained in the
unlocked position as shown in FIG. 97A; and a second position, shown in FIG. 97B,
where locking arm (2130) no longer bears against top surface (2156) of bearing column
(2155) of stabilizing member (2152) such that locking arm (2130) is able to move into
the locked position as shown in FIG. 97B. Stabilizing member (2152) is resiliently
biased toward the first position, shown in FIG. 97A, via a spring (2158) (i.e. biased
to maintain locking arm (2130) in the unlocked position). Stabilizing member (2152)
further comprises a bearing surface (2159). As shown in FIG. 93, bearing surface (2159)
extends into circular recess (2142). As will be discussed in more detail below, as
cannula (1300) is positioned within circular recess (2142) of stabilizing member (2140),
a distal surface of lock nut (1320) of cannula (1300) is configured to engage bearing
surface (2159) of stabilizing member (2152) to thereby drive stabilizing member (2152)
into the second position such that locking arm (2130) is able to move into the locked
position as shown in FIG. 97B.
[0123] Secondary targeting rail (2110) includes an integral cylindrical tube (2120). A translatable
member (2160) is slidably disposed within cylindrical tube (2120) of secondary targeting
rail (2110). Translatable member (2160) comprises a rod (2162) and a cam member (2164).
Rod (2162) is slidably disposed within cylindrical tube (2120) such that translatable
member (2160) is operable to translate between a first longitudinal position and a
second longitudinal position. A first end (2163) of rod (2162) extends from a first
end of cylindrical tube (2120). As best seen in FIG. 95, a second end (2165) of rod
(2162) extends from a second end of cylindrical tube (2120) and a cam member (2164)
extends perpendicularly from second end (2165) of rod (2162). Cam member (2164) comprises
an angled cam surface (2166). Locking arm (2130) is configured to engage angled cam
surface (2166) as translatable member (2160) translates between the first longitudinal
position and the second longitudinal position and as locking arm (2130) moves between
the unlocked position and the locked position. In particular, and as will be discussed
in more detail below, movement of arm (2130) from the unlocked position to the locked
position is configured to drive locking translatable member (2160) from the first
longitudinal position to the second longitudinal position; while movement of translatable
member (2160) from the second longitudinal position to the first longitudinal position
is configured to drive locking arm (2130) from the locked position to the unlocked
position.
[0124] FIGS. 101A-102B show the steps of locking cannula (1300) within guide hole (2144)
of locking device (2100). FIG. 101A shows cannula (1300) in a first longitudinal position
removed from locking device (2100). With cannula (1300) in this position, locking
arm (2130) is retained in the unlocked position by engagement of locking arm (2130)
with top surface (2156) of bearing column (2155) of stabilizing member (2152) such
that cannula (1300) may be received within circular recess (2142) and guide hole (2144)
of stationary member (2140). As discussed above, with locking arm (2130) in the unlocked
position, translatable member (2160) is in the first longitudinal position. Cannula
(1300) is then moved into a second longitudinal position such that lock nut (1320)
is disposed within circular recess (2142) of stationary member (2140) and such that
cannula (1300) is passed into guide hole (2144) to a point where a distal surface
of lock nut (1320) engages bearing surface (2159) of stabilizing member (2152) as
shown in FIG. 101B and in more detail in FIG. 102A. As cannula (1300) is moved into
this position, locking arm (2130) remains in the unlocked position such that lock
nut (1320) may be positioned within circular recess (2142) of stationary member (2140)
and such that cannula (1300) is passed into guide hole (2144) of stationary member
(2140). Cannula (1300) is then moved into a third longitudinal position such that
lock nut (1320) and cannula (1300) are passed further into circular recess (2142)
and guide hole (2144) respectively and such that lock nut (1320) drives stabilizing
member (2152) into the second position to thereby enable locking arm (2130) to move
into the locked position as shown in FIG. 101C and in more detail in FIG. 102B. A
spring (not shown) may drive locking arm (2130) toward the locked position as soon
as stabilizing member (2152) pivots toward the second position thereby providing the
necessary clearance. As locking arm (2130) moves into the locked position, translatable
member (2160) is driven proximally into the second longitudinal position by contact
between locking arm (2130) and angled cam surface (2166) of cam member (2164) of translatable
member (2160). In the locked position, distal surface (2136) of locking arm (2130)
engages a proximal surface of lock nut (1320) such that cannula (1300) is locked within
circular recess (2142) and within guide hole (2144) of stationary member (2140) of
locking device (2100). In other words, bottom surface (2146) and lock nut (1320) cooperate
to restrict distal movement of cannula (1300); while locking arm (2130) and lock nut
(1320) cooperate to restrict proximal movement of cannula (1300).
[0125] FIGS. 103A-103C show the steps of unlocking cannula (1300) from locking device (2100).
FIG. 103A shows translatable member (2160) in the second longitudinal position, locking
arm (2130) in the locked position, stabilizing member (2152) in the second position,
and cannula (1300) in the third longitudinal position. Translatable member (2160)
is driven distally into the first longitudinal position as shown in FIG. 103B. For
instance, an operator may simply press distally on exposed first end (2163) of translatable
member (2160). As translatable member (2160) is driven into the first longitudinal
position, contact between angled cam surface (2166) of cam member (2164) of translatable
member (2160) and locking arm (2130) drives locking arm (2130) into the unlocked position.
With locking arm (2130) in the unlocked position, stabilizing member (2152) is driven
toward the first position via spring (2158) to thereby retain locking arm (2130) in
the unlocked position. With locking arm (2130) in the unlocked position, cannula (1300)
may be retracted proximally into the first longitudinal position to thereby remove
cannula (1300) from locking device (2100).
[0126] Having shown and described various embodiments of the present disclosure, further
adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate
modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art. Several of such potential modifications
have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For
instance, the examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,
and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.
[0127] The present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is
understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described
in the specification and drawings.